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����ֱ�� ����ֱ�� Says to Celebrate America’s Can-Do Spirit This July 4th

by Ileana Martinez | Jun 30, 2023 | News & Updates

As we observe July 4th, the day when Americans gather to celebrate the birth of our great nation, it is essential to reflect on the origin and history of this significant holiday. On July 4th, 1776, the thirteen American colonies declared independence from British rule, igniting a revolutionary movement that would shape history. Since then, the Fourth of July has symbolized freedom, unity, and the relentless pursuit of opportunity.

Ignacio Salazar, ����ֱ��’s President and Chief Executive Officer, expresses his awe at the indomitable spirit that defines America. He notes, “America is still the greatest land of opportunity and prosperity because of our can-do spirit to make the most out of every opportunity, even if it comes unexpectedly and, in a way, we never thought would happen.” This unwavering determination has propelled the United States to unparalleled heights, making it a beacon of hope and opportunity for people worldwide.

For most people in the United States, the Fourth of July holds a special place in their hearts. It is a day of remembrance, paying homage to the brave men and women who fought for independence and an occasion to recognize the values upon which this country was built. Freedom, equality, and the pursuit of happiness are the pillars defining America; today, citizens come together to honor these principles.

Salazar further emphasizes America’s pioneering spirit: “The USA continues to be the nation that envisions not just the ‘what’ of a new product, service, or program; but how to make it better and why this improvement matters.” From engineering and manufacturing to science, medicine, and countless other fields, Americans lead the charge in training, workforce development, and adapting to the evolving needs of society and the country. The can-do spirit is alive in every sector, driving progress and innovation.

In the face of these challenges, employers are stepping up to ensure their workforce’s continued growth and development. They recognize that the future lies in investing in their employees’ skills and talents. Companies are becoming more creative, offering increased training and skills development opportunities on the job, fostering a culture of constant improvement and adaptability.

As ����ֱ�� and the ����ֱ�� Network of Affiliates proudly celebrate America’s birthday this July 4th, we eagerly anticipate the future. We embrace the endless possibilities of job opportunities in the newest and latest areas of sustainability, artificial intelligence, and even the exploration of our universe, from nanotechnologies to space itself. ����ֱ�� and the ����ֱ�� Network of Affiliates are prepared for the journey, supported by a dedicated staff, program participants, board members, and stakeholders who share a resounding message: “Happy July 4th! We Got This!”

On this momentous day, let us remember the sacrifices of those who came before us and honor the can-do spirit that has defined America. Together, we can overcome challenges, adapt to circumstances, and build a brighter future for all. Happy Fourth of July!

����ֱ�� Joins in Celebrating Juneteenth and The Promise of Freedom for All

by Ileana Martinez | Jun 16, 2023 | News & Updates

June 19 marks a significant day in American history – Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day. On this day in 1865, the enslaved African Americans of Galveston, Texas, received the news of their freedom from Union army troops. It was a momentous occasion as they learned that slavery had been abolished by law. However, it had officially ended two and a half years earlier with President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. The people of Galveston, filled with joy and hope, immediately embraced this newfound freedom. Just one year later, they began to commemorate it as a day of celebration, even if it arrived after the rest of the nation.

“Their emancipation, though delayed, opened the opportunity to begin a journey toward a better economic future for themselves and their future generations,” said Ignacio Salazar, President & CEO of ����ֱ�� Jobs for Progress National (����ֱ��). “Freedom’s transformative power for those once enslaved gave them hope, resilience, and resolve to achieve their dreams. At ����ֱ�� and the ����ֱ�� Network of Affiliates, this day serves as a reminder of the determination to help uplift individuals who experienced significant challenges but refuse to let those dampen their spirits or hinder their progress. Their unwavering resolve to improve their lives inspires us all,” says Salazar.

It took another 156 years for Juneteenth to become an official federal holiday, with President Joe Biden signing the law on June 17, 2021. Yet, the progress toward equitable economic opportunities continues to this day. For over six decades, ����ֱ�� and the ����ֱ�� Network of Affiliates have been dedicated to assisting more than a million people annually in achieving their economic freedom through workforce development programs. These initiatives empower participants to uplift themselves, set new goals for their futures, and overcome the barriers that may have hindered them from reaching their full potential.

“Our mission at ����ֱ�� is to empower people to overcome the challenges that have kept them from attaining their full potential,” says Salazar. “We strive to open a path so every participant can acquire the necessary skills training, personal and work-related development, and benefit from our broad support structure. The greatest reward is to see individuals grow and do whatever it takes to learn a new trade or profession. Yet, the to achieve prosperity and equality as a nation,” he adds.

Juneteenth, or Freedom Day, is a momentous occasion that unites us in celebrating our country’s journey toward fulfilling the promise of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all. It is a time when we come together to honor the resilience of those who fought for freedom, acknowledge our progress, and recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of achieving equality and economic empowerment for every individual.

As we commemorate Juneteenth, La Familia de ����ֱ�� joins with our communities, partners, and stakeholders in recognizing the importance of this day. Together, we can build a brighter and more equitable future where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the prosperity of our nation.