Red foods and beverages have gained significance as potent symbols in Juneteenth celebrations.
The iconic Juneteenth beverage, along with various other red-colored dishes and drinks, signifies the bloodshed and the massive sacrifices made by previously enslaved African Americans, according to food historian Adrian E Miller.
Miller also mentioned that red is a royal color in African culture, adding depth to the folklore surrounding Juneteenth.
On June 19, communities all across the nation will unite with food, parades, games, music, and vivid displays of Black culture to celebrate the rich mosaic of resilience and triumph that encapsulates Juneteenth.
A combination of the words June and nineteenth, June 19, 1865 is the day that Union Army Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger galloped into Galveston, Texas, and declared General Order No. 3, declaring that the enslaved African Americans were now free.
This declaration was made two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which couldn’t be enforced in areas under Confederate control. Despite being emancipated years earlier, this was the first time enslaved Texans learned about their newfound freedom, putting an end to slavery in the United States.
After being mainly celebrated by Black Americans for many years, in 2021 Juneteenth became a federal holiday in the US — the first to be approved since Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 1983.
Many Black Americans mark the day they were freed from enslavement with an array of red foods, such as barbecue, watermelon, red velvet cake, and strawberry pie. Streets will teem with aromas of grilled meats and spices mixing with the sweet scents of freshly baked pies and cakes.
“I think food is the glue,” Hall told CNN. The famous chef, who gained notoriety for her culinary skills on the hit TV series Top Chef and The Chew, stated that food is “the way we carry those stories of our ancestors.”
While recipes may change from generation to generation, Hall said food can serve as a unifying factor and often helps people maintain their heritage.
“So, I think in the spirit of this holiday ... for me, it’s about, understanding who I am and what my ancestors’ contributions are through food,” Hall said.
With roots in Texas, and dyed a vibrant red hue, Big Red Soda has become a common drink served at many Juneteenth celebrations. However, Miller noted the Juneteenth menu is evolving, welcoming creative twists on tradition.
In addition to cooking classics, such as barbecue, Hall said each year she aims to get more creative with her Juneteenth recipes. She incorporates hibiscus, which gives food a deep red color, into her meats, salads, and rice dishes. She also makes a hibiscus ginger sweet tea soda.
Hall encouraged those who embrace the symbolism on Juneteenth to let each sip and every bite serve as a reminder of the resilience and sacrifices of those who fought for freedom. She also encouraged people to find ways to commemorate and honor the freedom and sacrifices of the enslaved throughout the year.
“A red drink is symbolic ... but what are you doing the rest of the time?” Hall said**.
Juneteenth, she said, is a day not only to celebrate but to reaffirm our commitment to the ongoing struggle for justice, year-round.
Carla Hall’s hibiscus ginger sweet tea soda
(makes 8 servings)
Hibiscus Simple Syrup
- 2 parts water
- 1 part sugar
- 2 tablespoons ginger, grated
- 4 hibiscus tea bags
In a medium saucepan, heat the water and sugar until the sugar is dissolved. Add the grated ginger and tea bags. Allow to steep for at least 30 minutes. Remove the tea bags and strain the syrup into a pitcher. Refrigerate.
Tea
- 1 part hibiscus simple syrup
- 3 parts soda water
- Fresh lemon juice to taste
- Fresh mint, garnish
When the syrup has chilled, in a large glass (or pitcher) combine 1 part of hibiscus syrup and 3 parts of soda water. Add desired amount of lemon juice to taste. Pour into a large glass full of ice and garnish with mint and lemon.
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The unity amongst communities during Juneteenth celebrations extends beyond food and drinks, with US residents also participating in parades, games, and music. The passionate chef Carla Hall emphasizes the importance of food in preserving and celebrating Black heritage, particularly during Juneteenth.
