The purpose of this toolkit is to create an opportunity to dive deeper into Juneteenth and to encourage you and or introduce you to some cool new ways to celebrate and incorporate the things learned into your everyday life style! Don’t let it stop with Juneteenth! Let it be a springboard for you to start combing through other cultures to have a deeper appreciation of our differences. We’re all in this together!

What is Juneteenth (the importance of celebrating it across all races)?

Juneteenth, observed on June 19th, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. It marks the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that all enslaved people were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863. This event symbolizes the final liberation of enslaved African Americans and the enforcement of their freedom.

The importance of celebrating Juneteenth across all races lies in several key aspects:

Historical Acknowledgment: Recognizing Juneteenth is an acknowledgment of a pivotal moment in American history. It brings awareness to the delayed liberation of enslaved people and the long-lasting impacts of slavery.

Education and Awareness: Celebrating Juneteenth helps educate people about the history of slavery, its abolition, and the ongoing struggle for civil rights. It fosters understanding and empathy by highlighting the resilience and contributions of African Americans.

Unity and Inclusivity: Observing Juneteenth as a shared holiday promotes unity and inclusivity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of equality and justice, encouraging all races to reflect on the past and work towards a more equitable future.

Cultural Appreciation: Juneteenth celebrations often include cultural expressions such as music, food, and art, which allow people of all backgrounds to appreciate and enjoy African American culture.

Reflection and Progress: It provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in racial equality and recognize the challenges that still exist. It encourages continued efforts toward social justice and the elimination of systemic racism.

By celebrating Juneteenth, people of all races can honor the resilience of those who fought for freedom, acknowledge the importance of civil rights, and commit to fostering a society that values equality and justice for all.