In observance of Juneteenth, we are lifting up reflections from Glenn Harris, President of Race Forward, on what it means to center Blackness as a framework for understanding racial justice and building collective power.
Harris reminds us that centering Blackness means clearly naming how racial hierarchy in the United States was constructed and how it is maintained with anti-Blackness as its foundation. It offers a lens for understanding how power operates – so that we can build strategies that are grounded, durable, and capable of holding change.
As Harris notes, anti-Blackness sets the baseline for whose rights can be delayed, whose safety is treated as optional, and whose political power can be targeted without consequence. When that baseline shifts, the impact extends far beyond any one community -it opens the door to broader harm across all communities targeted by racialized authoritarianism.
This reflection also reminds us that Black liberation struggles have long expanded the boundaries of who is seen, protected, and included in our democracy. These struggles have reshaped the meaning of rights and citizenship in ways that continue to influence us all.
As we reflect on Juneteenth, we are reminded that retreating from centering Blackness is not a neutral choice – it weakens our collective analysis, our solidarity, and our ability to build lasting liberation. For more reflections and resources, visit Race Forward.
LGBTQ+ Communities: Resources & Support
In observance of Pride Month, we are sharing resources in support of our LGBTQ+ community:
- Illinois Pride Connect is the state’s online resource hub, offering a free, confidential legal hotline (855-805-9200) and directories for healthcare, housing, and social services.
- Central Illinois Friends provides counseling services for LGBTQ+ folks and their families who are uninsured or whose insurance may not cover counseling.
- Youth Outlook offers safe and supportive spaces for LGBTQ+ youth across northern and central Illinois and online.
- The Trevor Project: Call (866) 488-7386 or text START to 678-678 for 24/7 crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ youth.
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