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Commemorating & Celebrating Juneteenth

Sunday, June 19, 2022 marks the second annual observance of Juneteenth as a federal holiday in the United States. Juneteenth, or Freedom Day, commemorates the day in history when the last enslaved American were officially notified of their freedom in Texas, more than 2.5 years after President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.

In some communities, Juneteenth is a holiday that has been celebrated for multiple generations; for others there is still a learning curve as to why this important holiday needs to be recognized and become a part of mainstream American culture and cultural awareness. 

Juneteenth is an opportunity to engage in thoughtful conversation about the influence Black Americans have had on history and educate ourselves and others about what still needs to happen for all Americans to truly achieve freedom and justice.

One FLIK client recently took the opportunity to celebrate Juneteenth in a thoughtful, heartfelt way, that honored the numerous contributions of Black Americans to American history. The Black Employee Resource Group at this New Jersey-based organization asked FLIK to collaborate on a Juneteenth celebration that honored Black chefs, created conversation, and encouraged learning opportunities among their employees. The Entrepreneurial Council's own Chef Mike Lemon developed a comprehensive (and delicious!) menu that he personally introduced to the audience. 

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The menu drew inspiration from African roots and how it laid the foundation for American cuisine. Chef spoke about rice dishes throughout the African diaspora, how Black farmers embraced food as medicine and how it influences Black wellness, and even gave personal anecdotes about his own family and how that influences his cooking.

"I wanted to use today's menu to celebrate what Africans brought to American cuisine and culture. I hope you enjoy today's feats -- I truly just cooked from the heart."
- Chef Michael Lemon, Vice President of Culinary, FLIK Hospitality Group, Founding Member of FLIK's Entrepreneurial Council

On the Menu: 

  • Gumbo Bar featuring Duck, Andouille, Crawfish Gumbo with Peach, Basil, Honey, Black Pepper Gastrique, Grit Cakes, Pickled Vegetables 
Gumbo Bar

On the Menu: 

  • Grilled Okra, Calabrian Chilies, Pickled Garlic, Mint
  • Charred Yams, Sesame, Cumin Yogurt, Honeycomb
  • Chef Hennings Mac & Cheese 
Vegetables

On the Menu: 

  • Low Country Charleston Red Rice & Fried Catfish
  • Brine BBQ Spiced Chicken, Cornbread Sage Dressing
  • Black Eye Bean Cakes, Spicy Tomato Jam, Bourbon Smoked Sea Salt
  • Cheddar, Shishito Pepper Hush Puppies, Honey Butter
Fried Fish

On the Menu:

  • Blueberry Cornmeal Cobbler with Milk Dip
  • Mini Red Velvet Cupcakes
  • Banana Pudding 
Dessert Table

There are many ways to celebrate Juneteenth, whether through food & family gatherings, supporting local Black-owned businesses, reading Black authors, or listening to Black stories. It is a day to reflect on those who paved the road to freedom, honoring the contributions of those who have laid the groundwork for where we are today.

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At FLIK Hospitality Group we believe in great food, great service, and great people. Our wellness first approach ensures our food supports healthy and delicious choices, specially curated by our team of culinary experts and registered dietitians. At FLIK, we believe in seasonality in sourcing our ingredients and providing a customized approach to the culinary and hospitality needs of each client. Our dedication to providing quality hospitality service is unparalleled in the industry.

Join our team and see the FLIK difference. Where a job isn’t merely a job but the start of a career where you can flourish. Check out our current openings here:

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Have feedback or questions for our team? Email us at flikblog@compass-usa.com.