· By Kaitlin Johnstone
5 Children's Books for Juneteenth
Teaching children the history of Juneteenth is an important part of kids understanding our country’s history. The reality is, while many celebrate Independence Day, not ALL were free. Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when federal troops showed up in Galveston, TX to ensure all enslaved individuals were freed. Here are some of the children’s books we love to donate to honor this monumental moment in our country’s history.
“Juneteenth for Mazie” written and illustrated by award-winning author Floyd Cooper, follows a young girl named Mazie that learns about the history of Juneteenth and her ancestors while getting ready for a family cook out. She also learns about the struggles they faced during enslavement, leading up to Juneteenth.
“The History of Juneteenth” by Arlisha Norwood showcases the importance of having a holiday for Juneteenth. It also focuses on how the history of Juneteenth affects the world in which we live in today.
“Opal Lee And What It Means To Be Free" by Alice Fay Duncan focuses on Opal Lee and how Juneteenth should be for everyone. It provides an extensive look into the history of the holiday and is by far one of our daughter’s favorite books. The book also depicts how when enslaved people were emancipated, they were anything but free.
“Juneteenth” by Van G. Garrett is A lyrical picture book that follows a young boy as he learns about Black history and his place within that history while preparing for an annual Juneteenth celebration. He attends his first Juneteenth parade and discovers a lot about his ancestors along the way.
“I am My History” 'celebrates the power, strength, and richness of Black History and Culture by shining the light on those ancestors whose creativity and resilience lives in each of us', author, Brian Keith Harris.