What Is Juneteenth? Freedom and Learning from the Past

Why Juneteenth Matters—Now More Than Ever

Now more than ever, we need to learn from the past and reflect on where we’ve come from—because history holds the keys to a better future. Juneteenth is more than a celebration of freedom; it’s a reminder that the fight for justice and equality is not over.

This is a time to pause and remember what is good and beautiful about one another. It’s a time to teach our children that every person deserves dignity, safety, and the right to live free. Until freedom truly exists for all, we cannot call ourselves a great country—let alone a great world.

By learning our history, having honest conversations, and standing up for each other, we move closer to the future we want to see: one built on compassion, courage, and community.

⭐️What is Juneteenth?


Juneteenth is a holiday that celebrates freedom. It marks the day—June 19, 1865—when the last enslaved people in the United States were finally told they were free, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation.

Juneteenth is a mix of the words “June” and “nineteenth,” and it’s a day for celebrating freedom, family, and hope for a better future. It became a federal holiday in 2021, but many families and communities have been celebrating it for over 150 years!

🧠 Why Do We Celebrate Juneteenth?

Even though slavery had officially ended, many people didn’t know. On June 19, 1865, a general named Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and told the enslaved people there that they were free. That moment was the start of Juneteenth.

Juneteenth helps us remember:

  • What freedom really means

  • How far we’ve come

  • Why it’s important to stand up for fairness and kindness for everyone

When we learn about the past—even the hard parts—we can make better choices for the future. We can treat each other with love and respect, no matter how different we are.

📚 Books to Read Together

Here are a few amazing books that help kids learn more about Juneteenth, freedom, and important people in Black history:

Here are three excellent books for kids ages 6 to 10 to learn about Juneteenth, each offering age-appropriate storytelling and historical context:

"Juneteenth for Mazie" by Floyd Cooper

⭐ Mazie is tired of hearing "no" from her parents, but her father helps her understand the strength of her ancestors and the significance of Juneteenth. This beautifully illustrated book weaves in African American history through a relatable story about freedom and resilience.

"The History of Juneteenth: A History Book for New Readers" by Arlisha Norwood, PhD

⭐ Part of the History Books for Kids series, this chapter-style book introduces young readers to the origins of Juneteenth, key figures, and the ongoing struggle for equality. It includes historical facts, vocabulary, and activities that reinforce learning.

 "Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free" by Alice Faye Duncan, illustrated by Keturah A. Bobo

⭐ This inspiring picture book tells the story of Opal Lee, the "Grandmother of Juneteenth," and her fight to make Juneteenth a national holiday. It combines biography, history, and celebration with powerful artwork and a hopeful message.

📚✨ Join the Bright Littles Summer Reading Challenge! ✨📚

🔎People to Know About

Here are some important figures in history who helped shape freedom and equality:

  • Harriet Tubman – She helped lead enslaved people to freedom on the Underground Railroad.

  • Frederick Douglass – A powerful speaker and writer who spoke out against slavery.

  • Sojourner Truth – Fought for both freedom and women’s rights.

  • Abraham Lincoln – Signed the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 to help end slavery.

  • Opal Lee – Walked across the country to help make Juneteenth a holiday!

💬 Let’s Talk About It

Ask your child:

🕰️ “Why is it important to learn about what happened in the past?”
🤝 “How can we treat people more fairly today?”
🛡️ “What would you do if you saw someone being treated unfairly?”

🌱 Learning from the Past to Make a Better Future

When we understand what people went through to gain freedom, we become more thoughtful and kind. We can use that knowledge to stand up for others, be more inclusive, and help build a world where everyone feels safe and valued.

Juneteenth reminds us that we can always do better—and that learning is the first step to change.

✨ Celebrate Juneteenth by:

📚 Reading a book together
💬 Talking about fairness and kindness
🎉 Going to a local Juneteenth event or parade
🌟 Learning about Black leaders who made a difference

Because when we remember history, we shape a kinder future. Let’s keep moving forward—together. ❤️🖤💚

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