Juneteenth is more than a historical marker—it is a mirror and a mandate. A mirror to reflect how far we’ve come, and a mandate to carry the work forward. Through Season 3, Episodes 59 and 60 of America in Black and White, we hear two voices—Anthony Potter Jr. and Councilman Maurice Hairston—who embody this truth with urgency and grace.
Part 1: Financial Literacy as Freedom – A Conversation with Anthony Potter Jr.
Anthony Potter Jr. paints a vivid picture of economic resilience, rooted in personal struggle and generational responsibility. In his view, Juneteenth is not only the end of slavery, but the beginning of economic emancipation. He reframes financial literacy as a birthright—something to be passed down alongside our stories, our culture, and our survival.
“Every budgeted dollar is an act of protest. Every savings account, a brick in the foundation of generational wealth,” Anthony says. His message is both practical and revolutionary. For communities historically excluded from the wealth-building conversation, he insists we must not just participate—we must lead.
Charles Zackary King skillfully draws out the connection between financial autonomy and historical justice, reinforcing that true emancipation cannot be declared without economic equity.
Part 2: Bridging the Gap with Revolutionary Love – A Conversation with Councilman Maurice Hairston
Councilman Hairston’s words are laced with heart and heritage. Coming from Glenarden, Maryland, his journey as both policymaker and local artist bridges generational and ideological divides. He speaks of lost family values, disconnection among youth, and the urgency to restore identity within the Black community.
Hairston doesn’t just talk about change—he lives it. As a rapper, he speaks their language. As a legislator, he enacts their hopes. “You can’t lead a community you haven’t served,” he says. His concept of revolutionary love urges us to radically invest in each other—with truth, presence, and accountability.
Under Charles’s guidance, this conversation moves beyond politics. It becomes a soul-deep discussion about healing fractured communities and reclaiming cultural agency.
The Pulse of Juneteenth: Why These Stories Matter
These aren’t just interviews. They’re blueprints. They show us how Juneteenth isn’t confined to 1865—it’s alive today, in our decisions, our advocacy, and our vision for tomorrow.
Potter teaches us that financial literacy is the new civil rights frontier. Hairston reminds us that unity is the cornerstone of that frontier. And through these dialogues, America in Black and White becomes a platform not only for remembrance but for realignment.
Call to Action: Your Freedom Requires Fuel
- Teach financial literacy. Start in your home, your church, your schools.
- Bridge the gaps. Listen to your elders. Mentor the youth. Lead with love.
- Support Black leadership. Vote. Donate. Share stories that uplift truth.
Let Juneteenth be more than reflection. Let it be a resolution.
Changing Trends and Times 