Holidays offer moments to celebrate our values with family and friends. They promote belonging and a sense of connectedness with history, traditions, and other people in our community. One such holiday is Juneteenth. Recently enacted as a federal holiday, it is known to some as “America’s second Independence Day” because it celebrates the liberation of the last enslaved Black people in Texas, who were denied knowledge of their liberty a full two years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation decreeing all slaves to be free.
As a proud silver sponsor of the 2022 Albuquerque Juneteenth celebration event, Homewise advanced its corporate value of social justice and commitment to closing the racial homeownership gap for all people – especially those of color that have experienced systemic racism resulting in barriers to their dream of homeownership and wealth building.
In recognition of our history and to celebrate our resilience, Juneteenth was commemorated during a two-day celebration in Albuquerque where approximately 4,500 people enjoyed food, fun, music, dancing, cultural activities, education, and vendors sharing a variety of products and services. Homewise was excited to bring our signature homeownership advice and tips to the community, and increase awareness about our wonderful programs and services. Event highlights included a visit from Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller and Nichole Rogers, Juneteenth chairperson, with our own Sheryl Kassetas and Ken Brown at the outreach table; credit and homeownership training at the Convention Center with Sandy Hernandez and Nina Cooper; and CEO Mike Loftin speaking in a corporate sponsor spotlight.
Special thanks to board member Joseph Kunkel who stopped by and to all the Homewise staffers who helped to make our Homewise presence a success. We invite you to view our Facebook album for some photos of the event.