Observing National Freedom Day in the Workplace
Looking for a quick, actionable way to observe National Freedom Day at work? This post gives you a fast, DIY DEI tip you can apply right now.
National Freedom Day, observed every February 1, commemorates the signing of the resolution that became the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery in the United States. It was first proposed in 1948 by Major Richard Robert Wright Sr., a formerly enslaved man who believed February 1 should be a day to reflect on freedom and equality for all Americans.
In the workplace, this day isn’t just about honoring the past—it’s about examining how freedom continues to be unevenly distributed today. Here’s why that matters.
Why This Holiday Matters
In the Workplace, We Can Use National Freedom Day to Talk Honestly About Whose Freedom Is Still Conditional
This day reminds us that the fight for freedom didn’t end with the 13th Amendment. Here’s how it connects to equity and inclusion at work:
✅ It surfaces how historical systems—like slavery, segregation, and redlining—still shape modern disparities in pay, leadership, and access.
✅ It invites reflection on how “freedom” at work might feel different across race, gender, immigration status, or disability.
✅ It centers Black history beyond trauma—highlighting agency, resistance, and leadership.
✅ It launches Black History Month with a clear call to deepen—not dilute—the conversation.
Using this day as a mirror helps organizations align values with action.
One Inclusive Celebration Idea
Try this inclusive activity to mark National Freedom Day at work:
Host a “Freedom & Work” Reflection Thread
Here’s how:
- Share a short message about National Freedom Day and its origins, highlighting Richard R. Wright’s legacy.
- Prompt employees (voluntarily) to reflect on: “What does freedom at work look like to you?”, “Where is freedom still limited in your industry or role?”
- Encourage honest reflections—anonymous if needed—and gather themes to inform your next DEI goals.
- Pair the thread with a spotlight on Wright’s life or a discussion about workplace equity and belonging.
This connects history to current-day action and grounds your DEI work in real-world meaning.
Ready to explore more workplace-ready tips? Keep reading.
Ready for More?
Would you like a more detailed celebration guide for this holiday? Join our Free Community Here Inside, you’ll find DIY DEI guides, a full diversity calendar, and practical tools to help you build an inclusive workplace—without overwhelm.
Pause & Reflect
What barriers still exist to full freedom and belonging in your workplace—and who’s most impacted?
