Why Eat Red Food on Juneteenth?

 

Why Eat Red Food on Juneteenth?

Juneteenth, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States, is marked by rich traditions that speak to both history and hope. One of the most vibrant and meaningful customs is the inclusion of red foods in the celebration. From strawberries and watermelon to red punch, cherry pie, red velvet cake, sausages, hot dogs, and barbecue, the color red takes center stage at many Juneteenth gatherings. But the choice of red food isn’t just about color—it’s a powerful symbol of remembrance, resilience, and cultural pride.

In West African tradition, red is deeply symbolic. It represents spirituality and sacrifice, often appearing in rituals, ceremonies, and clothing. For the ancestors of African Americans, who were brought to the Americas through the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade, red carries spiritual weight and historical memory. When we eat red foods on Juneteenth, we are connecting back to these African roots and the strength of those who came before us.

The red foods also represent the blood that was shed by enslaved people during their brutal journey across the Atlantic and throughout their bondage in the Americas. It symbolizes the many lives lost in pursuit of freedom—the victims of the Middle Passage, the countless individuals who suffered under slavery, and those who perished while daring to escape it. Each bite of a red food on Juneteenth becomes a quiet, yet powerful, act of remembrance.

Red on Juneteenth also reflects the resilience and ingenuity of enslaved people and their allies. Despite being stripped of freedom, culture, and identity, African Americans created vibrant communities, rich traditions, and powerful resistance movements. Food was one of the many ways they preserved culture and found joy amidst adversity. Red dishes, with their bold flavors and festive appearance, reflect the creativity and strength that endured even in the darkest times.

Additionally, the color red honors the abolitionists—Black, white, and others—who fought tirelessly to end slavery. It is a shared color of struggle and triumph, linking people across racial and cultural lines in a common cause. Juneteenth is not only a celebration of emancipation but a tribute to everyone who contributed to the long fight for justice and equality. Wearing red or serving red food is a symbol of that shared victory.

For African Americans, incorporating red into Juneteenth is more than tradition—it’s a spiritual gesture that bridges past and present. It’s a way to pay homage to the ancestors, to teach future generations about the cost of freedom, and to keep the story of liberation alive. Eating red foods is a flavorful, meaningful way to participate in a legacy that continues to inspire.

Whether you're at a backyard barbecue or a community potluck, taking a moment to reflect on the meaning behind that slice of red velvet cake or glass of ruby punch adds depth to the celebration. It reminds us that freedom is hard-won and should never be taken for granted. It also reminds us that food, like history, can nourish the soul and connect us across generations.

So this Juneteenth, when you prepare or enjoy red foods, do so with intention. Let each flavor be a tribute—to the enslaved, to the survivors, to the fighters, and to the dreamers. Celebrate freedom, honor the past, and keep the spirit of Juneteenth burning bright.