Education is the key to unlock the golden door of freedom.
--George Washington Carver
Today marks the celebration of an important day in American history. It is on this day that we celebrate Juneteenth--a day of recognition, restoration, and freedom.
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth--also known as Freedom Day, Cel-liberation Day, Emancipation Day, and Jubilee Day--commemorates the official end of slavery across the entirety of the United States. June 19, 1865 was the day that slaves in Texas became aware of their freedom.
Even though the Emancipation Proclamation was signed two year prior, slaves were not released in Texas at the time partially due to the time it took to spread the news across the country, but also due to resistance from slaveowners.
Is Juneteenth a National Holiday?
Juneteenth, which has been celebrated by African Americans for years, has been observed as a state holiday by 47 out of 50 states. This year, many companies have offered Juneteenth as a paid holiday for workers. Juneteenth has yet to become a Federal holiday, though legislation is reported to be introduced by Congress to make this happen.
3 Things You Should Know About Juneteenth
President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring freedom for all slaves in states outside the Union effective January 1, 1863.
While the Emancipation Proclamation freed over 3 million slaves in 11 Confederate states, this did not apply to some of the border slave states.
Juneteenth, which is short for "June Nineteenth," commemorates the day the Emancipation Proclamation was enforced in Texas by Major General Gordon Granger and his troops.
References:
Resources to Teach Your Children About Juneteenth
It is important for our children to understand their history. Here are a few resources to help your children learn about Juneteenth:
Juneteenth Resources for Kids - https://www.localpassportfamily.com/2020/06/juneteenth-for-kids-resources-from-black-voices.html
How to Talk to Your Kids about the History of Juneteenth - https://blog.outschool.com/how-to-talk-to-your-kids-about-the-history-of-juneteenth/
Meaningful Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth with Your Children - https://www.mommyhoodcentral.com/family-friendly-activities-to-celebrate-juneteenth/
Video - Top Juneteenth Children's Books - https://youtu.be/ECa050iE4pY
Video - PBS Kids All About the Holidays | Juneteenth - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWBlikh8A2E
Want to provide your child with a personalized learning experience?
There are things your children need to learn about their heritage and identity that may not be provided by the school system. It is our responsibility to teach our children who they are so they can reach for greater individual success in the future.
We can offer your child a quality, well-rounded education by tapping into their individual strengths and learning styles, as well as providing positive affirmation and support.
We would love to chat with you and help you determine your next best steps. Click here to set up a free consultation.
Comments