Observing Juneteenth -- Meet the Moment, June 19, 2022

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​As a part of our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice, we’ll be recognizing observances and holidays that center the voices and experiences of historically excluded peoples in the United States. Last week, Brad shared his thoughts on how to support LGBTQ+ students in Pride month. Here, we mark Juneteenth. 

As an educational organization, we want to lift up the words of others who share our commitment to learning. As a predominantly white organization striving toward antiracist practice, and working to build equity and inclusion, we believe that the observance of Juneteenth should amplify Black voices and the Black experience.

“Even though there’s much work to be done, we have to celebrate the freedom that we have.” Opal Lee, activist

Learn about the history of Juneteenth:  The National Museum of African American History and Culture’s Juneteenth portal shares curatorial perspectives, oral history, and music.

Recognize Juneteenth in your community:  In “Teaching Juneteenth”, by Coshandra Dillard and published by Learning for Justice,  identifies four lenses for approaching the study of Juneteenth:  Culture as Resistance, Understanding Emancipation, Backlash to Freedom, and American Ideals.

We encourage you to seek out the many Black voices speaking and writing about Juneteenth.

One voice:  In “Growing Up With Juneteenth,” Dr. Annette Gordon Reed, author of “On Juneteenth” reflected on the personal and historical significance of the holiday two years ago, before a national holiday was established.