What is Juneteenth?
For the longest time, I did not know what Juneteenth was. No idea. I didn't learn about it in school. I never went to a Juneteenth celebration. Then, I started asking around and I found out many people have heard of Juneteenth, but can't exactly say what it is.
Juneteenth celebrates the official end of slavery.
On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. The proclamation declared "that all persons held as slaves" within the rebellious states "are, and henceforward shall be free." Without TV, internet, or phones, Abraham Lincoln sent soldiers to the southern states to read the proclamation and ensure the freedom of those enslaved. Many slaves ran north while others joined the Union army. It took 2 and a half years for the soldiers to reach Galveston, TX. On June 19, 1865, General Gordon Granger announced that the slaves in Texas were free by order of the president of the United States. Slavery was officially over in the United States.
How Can We Teach Kids about Juneteenth?
Whether you're in school, homeschooling, or just hanging out this summer with your kids, here are some great ways to teach kids about the importance of Juneteenth and the end of slavery.
1. Books about Juneteenth
Here are some great books that you can read to your class.
I bought these books on Amazon.
Juneteenth for Mazie by Floyd Cooper
In Juneteenth for Mazie, Mazie learns about the hardships her ancestors endured during slavery and the jubilation of freedom! It's a cute picture book. It's great for younger kids.
All Different Now by Angela Johnson
All Different Now: Juneteenth, The First Day of Freedom by Angela Johnson
This story tells the story of June 19, 1865 from the perspective of a little girl. Told in the first person, this story is engaging with amazing pictures.
Juneteenth by Drew Nelson
Juneteenth is a historical version of Juneteenth. Told in the second person, the reader feels connected to the events in the story. This is a book that is easy for students to read independently.
What is Juneteenth? by Kirsti Jewel
What is Juneteenth? is a great chapter book for independent reading for kids. It is a higher reading level than the Juneteenth book above. It spans the history of slavery, the abolishment of slavery and ways Juneteenth is celebrated today.
2. Videos about Juneteenth
This is a great video that explains Juneteenth in a kid friendly way. Great for upper elementary. It talks about the history of Juneteenth and how people celebrate it today.
Brainpop has a great Juneteenth video. This video is also great for upper elementary. This video discusses the politics behind Juneteenth including the Civil War and the problems former slaves faced. Typically, with Brainpop.com you need a subscription, I've seen this one highlighted as a free video.
3. Independent Activities about Juneteenth
After we've discussed the history of Juneteenth, I like to give informational texts for students to read independently. Here is a resource, I made for my class. It includes the history of Juneteenth, comprehension activities, and fun worksheets.
I hope you're able to celebrate Juneteenth with your students. It's such a wonderful celebration of independence and freedom. If you have anything special that you do, I would love to hear from you.
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