JUNETEENTH: June 19th

Juneteenth is a celebration of the freeing of the remaining enslaved Africans in the United States by orders issued by Major General Gordon Granger on June 19, 1865. Many enslaved Africans were previously freed through the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. Juneteenth became a federal holiday by President Joe Biden on June 17, 2021, though many people celebrate on the third Saturday in June.

Juneteenth is often celebrated with readings of the Emancipation Proclamation, traditional songs, readings of African American writers such as Ralph Ellison and Maya Angelou, street fairs and cookouts. Red colored food and drinks appear on the table during Juneteenth as a representation of resilience and joy. According to historian Mitch Kachun, “celebrations of the end of slavery have three goals: ‘to celebrate, to educate, and to agitate’” Juneteenth – Wikipedia

While a lot of progress has been made since the end of chattel slavery, much still needs to be done to end the oppression of men, women, and children with melanin-rich complexions. As adults raising and educating children, we are in a position to do better than those who came before us. May we teach the next generation to love, appreciate, and learn from those around us who are different from ourselves. 

Here are some ways you and your family can celebrate and learn more about Juneteenth:

Watch: I Am the Hope and the Dream by Remy Styrk is a local video that you can watch with your family. Our hope is that you watch this video that elevates the voices of local Black students and Black community leaders and encourages enriching conversation as a family about the significance of Freedom Day.

Performance: Celebrate with the KE’s Drumming and Gyils Club performing at the Juneteenth Farmer’s Market on Wednesday, June 18th at the Hangar/Town Square @ 5:00 pm.

Watch: Netflix’s 13th Documentary Another great adult resource to deepen your understanding of the significance of Juneteenth and the U.S. unique issues of black criminality.