June 2025, New York, NY…, Juneteenth, which is celebrated every year on June 19th, marks a pivotal moment in American History – the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, finally received word of their emancipation, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been signed. It is a celebration of freedom, resilience, and the enduring pursuit of justice. Coinciding closely with Father’s Day, Juneteenth offers a powerful opportunity to reflect not only on liberation but also on the legacy of fatherhood in the Black communities.
Historically, the institution of slavery systematically dismantled Black families, stripping fathers from their children and denying them the ability to lead, protect, and provide for their loved ones. The trauma of those centuries still echoes today, yet so does the triumph. In the face of systemic oppression, Black fathers have long served as pillars of strength, wisdom, and cultural pride, keepers of a legacy shaped by struggle, perseverance, and deep love.
Juneteenth is not just a commemoration of the past – it is recognition of the journey and the people who carried the dream of freedom forward. Among them are fathers who have fought, both quietly and boldly, to reclaim their rightful role in their families and communities. They are mentors, leaders, and storytellers, teaching younger generations the importance of identity, resilience, and purpose.
As we honor Juneteenth, we must also elevate the importance of fatherhood – not as a singular role, but as a cornerstone of strong, thriving communities. This dual celebration invites us to acknowledge the progress made, the challenges that persist, and the critical need to support and empower fathers, particularly those from historically marginalized communities.
Juneteenth and Father’s Day together offer a profound reminder: Freedom is not only the absence of chains but the presence of opportunity, dignity, and legacy. Celebrating fathers on this day deepens the meaning of liberation, honoring not just a historical milestone, but the lives and love that continue to shape our future.
As Black fathers, we must continue striving for liberation by leading our families with strength, love, faith, and purpose, breaking generational cycles, uplifting our communities, and ensuring our children inherit not only freedom, but a legacy of dignity, pride, and resilience. Our pursuit is ongoing, rooted in faith, unity, and the unshakable belief that our presence and leadership are vital to lasting change.
Rev. Dr. Demetrius Lawrence Sr. is originally from Brooklyn, NY, and currently is the co-pastor at Mother Zion A.M.E. Zion Church in Harlem, where Rev. Dr. Malcolm Byrd is the Senior Pastor. He is an energetic pastor, teacher, and motivational speaker who conveys the word of God with remarkable insights. Rev. Lawrence has been preaching the word of God and touching countless lives for over 20 years since his divine calling. He was consecrated, ordained, and licensed by his esteemed Senior Pastor, Apostle R.L. Jackson, in 1998. He previously served as the associate pastor at The Life Center Ministries in Brooklyn, NY. Rev. Lawrence is the founder of Kingdom Restoration Ministries.
As a sower goes forth to sow, Rev. Lawrence possesses an anointing that enables him to minister to those in need of healing of their mind, body, and soul. With such a significant calling, he makes time to visit the sick, reach out to family and friends, and dedicate time to studying God’s word.
Pastor Lawrence’s motto is simply based on “FAITH” – Express It, Expect It, Experience It.
