Juneteenth is a celebration of the end of slavery in the United States. It commemorates June 19, 1865 — the day the end of the Civil War was announced in Texas. It is known as our country’s second Independence Day.
Juneteenth has always been a day of celebration in the African American community, with family and friends gathering to offer comfort, prayers, and a celebration of freedom. Today many pieces of the celebration focus on activities like fishing, rodeos, and barbecuing, but the main focus of the day is self-reflection and improvement.
A good way to explain the meaning of Juneteenth to children is to talk about the importance of human beings having a level of freedom in their day to day lives.
Below are 4 ways to celebrate and bring awareness of Juneteenth into your home:
Attend the Juneteenth March for Justice and Equality at Perry Square
Protestors will gather in Perry Square at noon and silently march to the Erie County Courthouse. Protestors are asking officials for police reform, a funded minority economic task force, improved hiring practices in Erie County, the City of Erie, and Erie’s Public Schools. All are invited. Get more details here.
Prepare a special meal
Coming together as a family for a special meal and discussion is a good way to celebrate Juneteenth, especially if young kids are involved. This is a great way to explain the importance and meaning of the holiday while encouraging healthy self-reflection techniques. (Need some ideas on traditional Juneteenth foods? Check out this video from Thrillist.)
Learn
As you explore different ways to bring awareness about Juneteeth, be sure to watch or read material before you introduce it to your child to make sure it makes sense on their level. For older children, the African American History Museum’s website offers good information about Juneteenth. For younger kids, try books like "Juneteenth for Mazie", about a little girl who is upset about restrictions like bedtime; and "All Different Now," the story of the day freedom arrived in Texas from a little girl's perspective.
Draw
Have children create a drawing of what freedom and kindness looks like for them.
Similar to other holidays like July 4th and Memorial Day, Juneteenth is an important day in American history. Freedom is an important part of our history.
Eraina Ferguson is the publisher of Macaroni Kid Torrance, Calif.
