9 Black Beauty Founders on How They’re Honoring Juneteenth

Sunday marks Juneteenth, and while the occasion serves as a celebration of the end of slavery in the United States, the holiday also brings a vast array of emotions. From grief to joy and everything in between, there is no right way to feel—or observe for that matter. 

We want to take a step back to acknowledge and appreciate the strides Black entrepreneurs have made in both the fashion and beauty industries. And so, we’re holding space for nine Black beauty founders to share their feelings ahead of the second year of the federally recognized holiday, at a time when many of us don’t truly feel free and safe (think: how the coronavirus affected Black people at a disproportionately high rate and the long list of Black people killed by the police). 

Below, the nine founders  share what Juneteenth means to them and how they plan on celebrating. 

Shani Darden, celebrity esthetician and founder of Shani Darden Skin Care

Juneteenth is a chance to reflect on the history of the day, as well as educate myself and others on how to continually move forward, and not backwards, ensuring that history does not repeat itself. It is a chance to celebrate Black freedom and resilience. As a Black woman and mother of two daughters, it is always on my mind about how to protect and support POC. I want my daughters and young POC everywhere be able to fearlessly live their lives and follow their dreams without fear of racial injustice. 

I’ll be spending Juneteenth with my daughters, celebrating, and discussing the importance of the day with them. As a brand, we will be making a donation to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund who are fighting hard for racial justice, equality, and inclusivity. 

Sharon Chuter, founder of UOMA Beauty