Leadership in Every Gesture: The Cultural Significance of Seeing and Honoring Others

Freedom… what does that really mean today?

For me, it’s personal. I served 22 years in the military. My family? Nearly 200 years of combined service across all branches. We value freedom—not just as a concept, it’s a family legacy. When I think of Juneteenth, I think of that kind of freedom: the right to be treated equally, to live fully, to be seen as I am.

Even within our freedom journey, Black Americans have created cultural expressions that hold deep meaning. One of the most powerful is the head nod—a subtle, smooth gesture that says: “Hold your head up. I see you. I respect you.” More than just a greeting, the nod is a quiet signal of connection. A motion upward, eye contact, maybe a smile. Recognition without words, rooted in shared experiences.

The head nod has history. It began when enslaved people used nonverbal cues to communicate solidarity and dignity, especially when they were expected not to be seen or heard. During segregation, it became a signal of mutual support in hostile environments. Today, it remains a sign of respect and acknowledgement. Like a soldier’s salute, missing a head nod can feel like disrespect, a break in protocol.

Some people say, “I don’t see color” but that misses the beauty in cultural identity. People of color know they are seen—the color of our skin shaped our stories, struggles, and triumphs. We are not invisible and pretending not to see color is like standing in the rain and denying you’re getting wet. We do not have to pretend distinctions don’t exist when they do.  Instead, we should learn to push past our comfort zones and lean into understanding others across our differences. That’s how we can truly “see” one another.

Good leaders leverage differences in the workplace when they give “the nod” to others, support their ideas, and recognize employees’ contributions fairly. It matters to them and the organization because showing value and respect is critical to performance outcomes, retention of talent, and positive work cultures.

Juneteenth is more than celebrating the end of slavery. It is recognizing a new beginning beyond oppression and promoting equality for all people.  It represents the moment America stepped into the ideals of true freedom because all people were free and seen as people, not property.

The head nod carries that spirit of freedom and respect within the Black diaspora. With this one quick gesture, we say “You matter. Your experiences are meaningful. You are not alone.”

When I met my “in-loves,” they greeted me with a double cheek kiss then invited me to their family table. Displays of affection were different in my family, but that exchange made an impression. Instantly, I felt seen and welcomed. That moment is a reminder that the sense of belonging transcends cultures.  That’s what the head nod symbolizes. We belong. No words needed, just mutual recognition and respect.

So if we cross paths, you will get a head nod—because I see you. I respect your journey. I celebrate freedom with you.

Happy Juneteenth, America!