Reflecting on Juneteenth at Magnolia: A Day of Remembrance, Healing, and Hope
Written by: ivey gibbs
Juneteenth is more than a celebration of freedom—it is a solemn reminder of how long freedom was denied, and how much work remains. At Magnolia, this day carries special meaning. It calls us to reflect honestly on the land’s history, to honor those who were enslaved here, and to reaffirm our commitment to truth, justice, and healing.
This year, we gathered in community for a powerful day of programming. Through meaningful conversations, thoughtful storytelling, and sacred remembrance, we honored not only the end of slavery, but the living legacies of those who endured it.
At the heart of our Juneteenth commemoration was a panel discussion featuring Polly Sheppard, Margaret Seidler, and John Jones—three individuals whose stories, insights, and advocacy continue to move the work of freedom forward. Polly’s words rang especially true: “We all came over on different ships, but we’re in the same boat.” Her reminder of our shared humanity and intertwined futures grounded the day in a sense of purpose and unity.
Following the panel, our Living Legacies programming—presented in partnership with the Slave Dwelling Project—invited guests to learn and interact with incredible storytellers who presented history in compelling and engaging formats. One of the most poignant moments came during the performance by Benjamin Seabrook and the reading of names. These were the names of people who were once enslaved at Magnolia, names that history tried to erase. With each name spoken aloud and each toll of the bell, we reclaimed their memory. The act of naming was not just ceremony—it was reclamation. It was dignity restored.
Our reflection also turned to the history of Mother Emanuel AME Church, one of the oldest Black churches in the South and a symbol of resilience rooted in Charleston’s own story. Founded in 1817 by free and formerly enslaved Black people, the church was born from resistance and became a center for education, political action, and hope. Though Denmark Vesey’s planned revolt in 1822 led to the church’s destruction, it endured—rebuilding, resisting, and rising again for generations.
In recent history, Mother Emanuel became a global symbol after the tragic massacre of nine worshippers during Bible study on June 17, 2015. Polly Sheppard, one of the survivors, has continued to bear witness with courage and grace, reminding us all that even in darkness, light can be found.
Juneteenth reminds us that the journey toward liberation did not end in 1865. The struggle for equity, justice, and truth continues—and the Black church has long stood at the forefront of that movement. It is a place where faith and action meet, where generations have found strength, solidarity, and the courage to fight for a better future.
As we reflect on Juneteenth, we are reminded: remembrance must lead to responsibility. History must guide us forward—not as a burden, but as a call. We are grateful to all who joined us at Magnolia to hold space for this important moment. The work of freedom is far from over, but together—with open hearts, honest conversations, and a shared commitment—we can keep moving toward justice.
Because as Polly said, we’re in the same boat. And it’s up to us all to steer it forward.
