June 19, 1865, marked the end of slavery in the United States. While most assume The Emancipation Proclamation did so in 1863, the truth around this part of Black History is not so cut and dried. Read on for some background into Juneteenth history and ideas on how to celebrate Juneteenth this year.
Why is Juneteenth important?
How to plan a virtual celebration for Juneteenth 2021
Even with many vaccinated, Juneteenth 2021 might be a lot like other celebrations over the last year and a half. If you'd rather celebrate Juneteenth virtually this year, you can still make it fun while staying safe at home.
- If your friends and family live nearby, a drive-through Freedom Day celebration complete with Juneteenth decorations is also a fun option. Hand out red velvet cupcakes and red soda as cars drive through.
- Consider setting up a Juneteeth crafts exchange with family members or have a virtual Zoom party. This Juneteenth flag craft from Oriental Trading Company is inexpensive and can be easily mailed to virtual partygoers ahead of the Zoom event.
- For a small in-home gathering, host a virtual screening of Netflix's High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America.
- Incorporate an easy Juneteenth lesson with this flag template from the African American Museum of Iowa.
Juneteenth, though the result of a somber period in American History, is a time to celebrate equal rights and freedom.
Ateira Griffin is the Director of Regional Leadership Development Leadership for Educational Equity. In an essay titled, An Open Letter to My Ancestors, Griffin wrote, "Our people’s freedom — Black people’s freedom — did not happen at the stroke of the pen from Lincoln or the lone announcement from a Union Major. Our freedom has been in progress since we first stepped foot on the shores of Virginia in 1619 and continues to evolve over 400 years later."
