Juneteenth is an important day in American history because - freedom is an important part of our history.
This day has long been a time of celebration, especially in the African American community, and its significance only continues to grow: In 2021, Juneteenth National Independence Day was designated a U.S. Federal holiday.
White House Proclamation
On June 19, 1865 — nearly nine decades after our Nation’s founding, and more than 2 years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation — enslaved Americans in Galveston, Texas, finally received word that they were free from bondage. As those who were formerly enslaved were recognized for the first time as citizens, Black Americans came to commemorate Juneteenth with celebrations across the country, building new lives and a new tradition that we honor today. In its celebration of freedom, Juneteenth is a day that should be recognized by all Americans.
Want your family to take part in this important and historical celebration of freedom? Here are four ideas how:
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Attend a Juneteenth event
❤️ Juneteenth Celebration of Ventura CountyJune 17, 2023
❤️ Juneteenth Community CelebrationJune 17, 2023
❤️Juneteenth - East County CelebrationJune 18, 2023 - Sorry this event has been cancelled
❤️ Juneteenth Festival Leimert ParkJune 19, 2023
⛵ Juneteenth SailJune 19, 2023
For the most up to date Juneteenth events visit the Macaroni KID Conejo Valley - Malibu - Calabasas event page, where you will find events in Conejo Valley, Malibu, Calabasas, Oak Park, Agoura Hills, Westlake Village, Newbury Park, Thousand Oaks and nearby in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties.
Learn about the holiday's meaning
Here's a catchy kid-friendly song from Sesame Street that explains Juneteenth:
For older children, the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture’s website offers good information about Juneteenth, including a reading list.
Looking for great kids' books about Juneteenth? We love "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.
Prepare a special meal together
Coming together as a family for a special meal is a traditional way to celebrate Juneteenth. Use the opportunity to explain the importance and meaning of the holiday to your kids.
Want ideas on what to cook? Check this fun video from Thrillist out:
Think about positive changes you'd like to see
The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, suggests a great way to get kids involved and thinking about the meaning behind Juneteenth is to draw a picture, make a sign or write in a journal on the subject of what positive changes they would like to see in the world, and what they can do to help.
The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture offers these conversation starters to help kids begin thinking on the project:
- Who or what is important to you?
- What's something you'd like to see change in your community?
- What would your community be like if everyone was healthy, happy, and safe?
- Do you see a problem that needs to be fixed?
- Are there people who should be treated better? How?
- What can you do to make a difference, fix a problem, or help someone?
NMAAHC Kids Understanding & Celebrating Juneteenth
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You might also enjoy: Juneteenth: A Day to Celebrate, Lift Each Other Up & Reflect
