We wanted to remind you that we are closed in observance of Juneteenth on Monday, June 20th. It is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. On June 17th, 2021, it officially became a federal holiday.
Juneteenth was first celebrated in Texas, where on June 19, 1865, in the aftermath of the Civil War, slaves were declared free under terms of the 1862 Emancipation Proclamation.
Today, Juneteenth commemorates African-American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement.
In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities, and religions join hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today.
The National Museum of African American History and Culture at the Smithsonian provides this great reading list.
Interested in resources for your learners? Click here.