How to Celebrate Juneteenth This Season

It’s a holiday worth knowing and honoring.

By: Mariah Thomas

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How You Can Celebrate, Educate, and Remember

In light of protests against police brutality and racial injustice, celebrating the history of freedom and equal rights is an important part of positive change. One holiday approaching is Juneteenth, a day celebrating the freedom of the remaining slaves in Texas — two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Abrahaman Lincoln in 1863.

Also known as Freedom Day, Juneteeth takes place on June 19th, and has been celebrated for more than 150 years in the United States. It’s a day meant to commemorate the strength and resilience of those who suffered, while informing the public who may be new to the day’s history. Here are a few ways to honor the day.

Visit Historic African-American Museums

Taking a trip with friends and family to a historic museum is a great way to learn more about Black history. Major sites like the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (Washington, DC) and The Schomburg Center (New York City) can offer you and your kids a detailed look into the lives of Black major figures and their history. If you’re unable to go to a museum in your area, you can find a list of virtual museum tours via Google Arts & Culture.

Donate to Organizations Fighting for Racial Justice

Donating is an actionable step against injustice, while supporting communities and organizations in need. Find an organization with a mission you’re passionate about. If you feel strongly about criminal justice reform, donate to the Equal Justice Initiative. The NAACP has been fighting for racial justice and equality for years, while the National Black Justice Coalition fights for inclusive employment and education for Black LGBTQ members. Always be sure to research how your donation will contribute to the organization’s mission.

Host a Movie Marathon

Grab popcorn and your favorite snacks and snuggle with your loved ones to binge-watch historic and modern Black films. Some personal favorites include "Hidden Figures," "Selma," "Harriet," "Loving," and "The Color Purple." For more kid-friendly options, try "The Princess and the Frog," "Black Panther," or "Soul."

Read the Classics

Reading classic Black books can immerse you in the world of the past. If you’re a poetry lover, you might be a fan of Maya Angelou and her memoir, "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings." Other classics include "A Raisin in the Sun," "Brown Girl Dreaming," and "Native Son." There are also plenty of book options for your kids to enjoy and learn from.

DIY Projects

This is a project your kids will surely love. You can learn more about Juneteenth through decorations. Create your own Juneteenth flag or posters commemorating African-American inventors. If you want to add a bit more challenge to your DIY day, try making tap shoes in honor of Bill "Bojangle" Robinson — one of the highest-paid African-American entertainers of the 20th century — or a Juneteenth-themed pop-up book.

Cook a Juneteenth Meal

Throughout the years, food has been an essential way for the public to celebrate Juneteenth. This can mean researching and cooking traditional Southern cuisine — such as collard greens or cornbread — or drinking red drinks, symbolizing the blood and resilience of former enslaved people.

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