What is Juneteenth? How to Celebrate This Historic Day
Written by Ashley Wiah, Assistant Recruitment Coordinator
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is a significant holiday that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. As an agency dedicated to fostering cultural awareness, Smart Sitting encourages families to embrace Juneteenth and use it as an opportunity to educate children about the importance of freedom and equality. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of Juneteenth and provide resources to help you celebrate and engage with your children.
The History of Juneteenth
Juneteenth dates back to June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of slavery. It marks the liberation of the last remaining enslaved individuals in the Confederate states, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth holds immense historical significance, reminding us of the struggles faced by African Americans and the ongoing fight for equality.
How to Celebrate Juneteenth
Community Events: Attend local Juneteenth parades, festivals, and picnics to engage with your community and celebrate together. These events often feature music, dance, and traditional foods, providing a vibrant atmosphere for children to learn and enjoy.
Educational Activities: Use Juneteenth as an opportunity to educate children about African American history. Explore books, documentaries, and online resources that discuss the significance of Juneteenth, the history of slavery, and the achievements of African Americans throughout history.
Artistic Expression: Encourage children to express their creativity through art, poetry, or storytelling related to Juneteenth. This can help them understand the cultural and historical context of the holiday while fostering their artistic abilities.
Juneteenth is a time to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and foster cultural awareness. By engaging in community events, educational activities, and artistic expressions, families can celebrate Juneteenth and teach children about the importance of freedom and equality. Smart Sitting encourages you to embrace this holiday, spark meaningful conversations with your children and nanny children!
Here are some fun resources that will help foster cultural awareness and promote understanding of the historical significance of Juneteenth!