Juneteenth: Resources and Events
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. The holiday marks the day—June 19, 1865—when enslaved Texans found out about the end of the Civil War and the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation….two and half years earlier on January 1, 1863. Juneteenth was declared a federal holiday in 2021.This is a time to be reminded that history continues to be whitewashed, conveniently silencing parts of our history that we shouldn’t forget. This happens in classrooms through the banning of books, on the streets with laws limiting the right to assemble, and at ballot boxes with the closing of polling places in many communities of color. These things have happened before, and, in some cases, never stopped.We encourage you to recommit to supporting Black communities not only this day, but everyday. You can do this through continuing to educate yourself and paying attention to the voices you are learning from and listening to. We've pulled together some resources below that can provide a place to start.
Resources
Local Events
Learn, listen, and celebrate
Henry Louis Gates on the legacy of Juneteenth
Overview of Juneteenth from the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture. Be sure to look at the Museum's "Digital Toolkit."
A moving, joyous, and inspirational playlist from NPR
Another perspective on slavery and the evolution of Juneteenth
Take Action
Sign the pledge; click here to read about the Racial Justice Commission's Reparations Are Due Campaign
Attend a YWCA Racial Justice Workshop!