As a proud African American, Juneteenth has always held a special place in my heart. It symbolizes true freedom and serves as an opportunity for me to pay homage to my ancestors.
I vividly recall not too long ago passionately advocating at my workplace for the recognition of Juneteenth as an official holiday. Thankfully, my plea didn't go unnoticed, and our leadership made the wise decision to acknowledge its importance.
Then, in 2021, something incredible happened – Juneteenth was officially declared a federal holiday by President Joe Biden when he signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law. It was an unforgettable milestone for our culture, and as African Americans, we finally felt seen and acknowledged. This historic moment meant so much to us.
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What the holiday means
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is a day that commemorates a remarkable event: The moment when news of the Emancipation Proclamation finally reached the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865. Can you believe it? That's two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was actually issued!
Juneteenth is a pivotal milestone in our nation's journey toward freedom. It's not just a celebration. It's a powerful reminder of the obstacles African Americans have confronted and continue to face in their quest for equality. This holiday encourages us to take a moment and reflect on the progress we've made since that historic day in 1865, while also recognizing the work that still lies ahead in the pursuit of true racial justice and inclusivity.
A day to celebrate, uplift, and reflect
 Photo courtesy of Natasha Bethea Goodwin |
The author, in the middle, with her friends and family celebrating Juneteenth.
When Juneteenth comes around, it's a day I always look forward to spending with my loved ones. It's all about connecting, having a great time, and celebrating together.
We like to gather around for a fun-filled BBQ, where we not only satisfy our taste buds, but also nourish our souls with meaningful conversations.
We share stories of success and achievement, stories that would surely make our ancestors beam with pride. It's incredible to see how far we've come and the barriers we've overcome.
But it doesn't stop there.
We brainstorm ideas, share our dreams, and talk about the ways we can contribute to the advancement of our community. It's all about uplifting each other and building a brighter future for generations to come.
Celebrating Juneteenth with kids
 Monkey Business Images | Canva |
Juneteenth is also a perfect opportunity to engage with our children, teaching them about the significance of this day and the struggles that many people have endured.
By celebrating Juneteenth, we're ensuring our children grow up with a deeper understanding of history and a commitment to creating a more equitable future.
As parents, we can engage in age-appropriate conversations, sharing stories and historical facts about the significance of this day. We can watch documentaries or movies with our children that shed light on the experiences of African Americans throughout history. We can even participate in local community events like the ones below or organize our own activities as a family that celebrate the achievements and contributions of the African American community.
Local Juneteenth Events
3rd Annual Hanover Juneteenth Jubilee June 17, 2023 12:00 to 5:00 pm Wirt Park, Hanover
Juneteenth We Are Family Cookout
Sunday, June 18, 2023 12p-7p (Set up 10a)
Location: Penn Park
Theme: "We Are Family," A Juneteenth Community Cookout
Sponsors: Highmark Whole Care. Wellspan Health, YWCA of the Roses and York City Parks and Recreation
HOW IT WORKS: This event is B.Y.O.E.! BRING YOUR OWN EVERTHING! Each family that registers will bring their own food, non-alcoholic drinks, grills, tents, tables, chairs, activities, music, etc.!) Set up like your own cookout in the park! There will be entertainment, an event DJ, family games, activities, contests and more! Families can set up and decorate their area and reserve up to 3 spaces. Juneteeth York will provide one table and two chairs to each registered family on first come, first served basis Register your family for the cookout here
Additional questions or concerns about family cookout registration contact: Diaz Woodard/ Dwoodard@yorkcity.org or Nacole Gaines/ Nacole Gaines ngaines@rosesymca.org
Juneteenth Block Party Celebration Union Lutheran Church York, PA June 19 6:00pm-8:00pm
Fourth Annual Gettysburg Juneteenth Parade and Jamboree June 19 12:00pm- 6:00pm
The Parade begins at Noon at Lincoln Square. Wear comfortable clothing, follow road rules and stay on sidewalks. All black flags and signs are welcome that promote uplifting Black Lives. The Jamboree begins at 1:30 PM and consists of an afternoon of music, children’s water fun, food, re-enactments, ethnic vendors, and much more.
Guests include Mama Gail (Steward-Clouden), universal love priestess; Mike Africa Jr., and host Reg Duzit. There will be music by Sydney Moon and Elay Echavarria, plus re-enactments by Malika Lovelace as Alice McCoy and Sheila Supenski as Lydia Hamilton.
Join in the fun at the Gettysburg Recreation Park, 545 Long Lane, Gettysburg.
Read more: How To Talk To Children About Juneteenth
Juneteenth is an opportunity for everyone, regardless of background, to empathize, listen, and learn from the experiences of African Americans. It's a time to amplify their voices, acknowledge the ongoing struggles, and actively participate in creating a more equitable society.
Understanding and celebrating Juneteenth is not limited to a single day. It's a continuous journey of growth and appreciation that we can embark on throughout the year.
Natasha Bethea Goodwin is the publisher of Macaroni KID District Heights, Md.
