If you’re looking for new ideas for your family’s Juneteenth celebration, you’re in the right place. The rich history of Juneteenth makes it an excellent opportunity to create a unique and meaningful experience that everyone in the family will enjoy.
Taking steps now means you can plan ahead and prepare for an amazing commemoration day. Fill your Juneteenth celebrations with fun activities, educational opportunities, and reflection on the importance of recognizing this important day. Let’s explore some ideas to celebrate Juneteenth!
What is Juneteenth? And Why Do We Celebrate It?
Let’s explore the history of Juneteenth first!
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Jubilee Day, is an important holiday celebrated in the United States on June 19th. This day commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in Texas, one of the last states to declare the emancipation of enslaved people. Although the Emancipation Proclamation was signed on January 1st, 1863, it was not until over two years later that the news reached Texas.
The delay in announcing the news in Texas was due to the fact that there weren’t enough Union troops to enforce the order until the end of the Civil War. When the order was enforced, it brought an end to the cruel and inhumane practice of slavery for thousands of people.
Today, Juneteenth is celebrated across the country as a time to reflect on the history and the significant contributions made by the African American community. It is a day to honor the past, celebrate the present, and work towards a more just future.
Juneteenth Celebration Ideas for The Family
Juneteenth is a historic and joyous occasion worth celebrating as a family. There are many creative ways to come together and commemorate this holiday. Here are some ideas:
Have a Family Cookout
It’s always fun when the family has a chance to throw something on the grill. Americans traditionally have cookouts for the 4th of July, Memorial Day, and Labor Day, so it’s only right to bring in this memorable holiday the same way. Gather up your loved ones and enjoy some good food and fun.
Do Themed Arts & Crafts for Kids
Time to get creative! Some fun ideas for the kids are to have them make stick flags designed like the Juneteenth flag that Ben Haith created. Some people also celebrate with the Pan-African flag, which is an option. Or you can allow them to freestyle and create whatever they feel represents the day.
Explore History
Understanding history is essential. Sit down with your family and read up on the history of this day. You can do that by finding books on the topic and watching films. You can also create and play trivia games about Juneteenth.
Find Local Celebrations
In most cities now, there are local events to commemorate the day. Do some research in your area to find out where there are parades and festivals.
Support Black-Owned Businesses
One way that people celebrate is to support only black businesses for that day. Find black-owned restaurants, clothing vendors, and more to support this holiday. A simple Google search will help you find businesses to patronize.
Donate to Black Charities & Causes
Another idea is to donate to charities and causes that support black people. Some options are the NAACP, The National Urban League, Equal Justice Initiative, and Color of Change.
Start Planning Your Juneteenth Celebration!
Juneteenth is an important day celebrated across the US to mark the end of slavery. Our family celebrations are meant to remind us to rededicate ourselves to working for justice, freedom, and equality in our communities.
The conversations that come from making Juneteenth a part of our family’s traditions can be powerful ways to remind us all of the strength, resilience, and courage of those who suffered in slavery and have thrived since then.
Celebrate this Juneteenth with some of these ideas, or create your own traditions. Engage your children in learning about the history behind it and inspire them with stories of resilience they can relate to.
Finally, don’t forget to share how you plan to celebrate Juneteenth!
featured image: Monkey Business Images
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