On Juneteenth, we remember that true freedom is not only the absence of chains, but the presence of dignity, belonging, and shared humanity.
We would be wise to take heed of the philosophy of Ubuntu, and the wisdom of African theologian J. S. Mbiti, who wrote concisely and powerfully:
“I am because we are; and since we are, therefore I am.”
Ubuntu offers a stark contrast to the Western ideal of “I think, therefore I am.” It reminds us that our humanity, our progress, and our success are interdependent. That no innovation, no culture, no strategy is sustainable without inclusion and collective empowerment.
As someone always learning, I hold this wisdom as a north star. If we want to build organizations rooted in justice and equity, we must move beyond surface-level inclusion.
We must build cultures where people don’t just survive—they belong. Where voices are not just heard—they are valued. Where we stop asking people to fit in, and start designing systems where people can truly thrive as they are—together.
Juneteenth is a call to listen, to reflect, and to reimagine what freedom, growth, and leadership look like in community.
#Juneteenth #Ubuntu #JSMbiti #DesmondTutu #IAmBecauseWeAre #Leadership #Equity #Belonging #ListenAndLearn #AmplifyBlackVoices #OrganizationalDevelopment
