A day of celebration where African-American families come together to honor our ancestors that were released from slavery. There are fireworks, cook-outs, and book talks during the day. People also celebrate by shopping in black-owned stores and visiting black history exhibits at museums. It is vital for children to learn about America’s true independence day. Thus, the books below are great ways to make this monumental day into student-friendly lessons!
What is Juneteenth?
While many people celebrate Independence Day on July 4, it is not the true day of independence for all. While President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation came in 1863, many enslaved people were still not free. It was not until the end of the Civil War that order came to enforce the end of slavery in the South. Thus, Juneteenth represents June 19th, 1865. This was when the Civil War ended. At this time, Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas to deliver the announcement that the war ended. He also expressed that slavery was to immediately end, which meant that 250,000 enslaved people were to be free.
Why is Juneteeth Celebrated among African Americans?
Frederick Douglas excellently stated why Juneteenth is so important to celebrate. He asked, “What to the American Slave is Your Fourth of July?” This one question completely sums up the importance. While many Americans are having Fourth of July parties and watching fireworks, they are actually only celebrating the freedom of some. At this time, African Americans were still enslaved. Thus, Juneteenth is celebrated to recognize the end of slavery. This wasn’t until 88 years after the first official Fourth of July celebration! After students learn about Juneteenth, the hope is that they will also celebrate the 19th of June in honor of all being free.
Books to Read for the Holiday
While many students will be on summer break for Juneteenth, they can still learn about it at the end of the school year! Hence, when it comes around in summer, students will be able to tell their families about the important day!
A Different Now: Juneteenth, the First Day of Freedom
The award-winning team of Angela Johnson and E.B Lewis created an inspirational book. Johnson writes about the joy of Juneteenth while Lewis creates breathtaking images to show the true meaning.
The book focuses on a young African American girl who tells about the first Juneteenth. Students will quickly realize this is when freedom actually came to enslaved people still living in the South. The little girl will take readers through a timeline of important dates while showing the actual date of freedom.
Activities to complete with the book
- Ask family and community members about their memories of freedom celebrations
- Compare Juneteenth to another holiday such as Cinco de Mayo
- Have a discussion on why celebrating Juneteenth is important
- Research the history behind the Emancipation Proclamation
Author Carol Boston Weatherford and artist Yvonne Buchanan bring the African American celebration to life!
In the story, Cassandra’s family moved from the city back to Texas, which is where her parents were born. Cassie has adjusted well, but Texas does not instantly feel like home. On one special day, Cassie gets to help make red velvet cake, fried chicken, and many side dishes. She knows it is June 19th, but she does not realize why her parents are making the day so special. However, she soon realizes why when they arrive downtown later that day. As Cassie celebrates with everyone around her, she quickly realizes how Texas is truly home.
Activities to complete with the book
- Research how Juneteenth is celebrated in your area
- Plan a classroom or family celebration of Juneteenth
- Write about your family traditions
Juneteenth is a day that everyone needs to know about. While it is great to have the Fourth of July celebrations, people need to know this is not the date of freedom for all. Thus, by teaching students about this vital day, they will be able to start their own Juneteenth celebrations with their families!
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