June, 2021

Today we are recognizing and celebrating Juneteenth!

What is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is a national holiday celebrating the liberation of Black Americans from slavery, when news of the Emancipation Proclamation made its way to the furtherest corners of the confederacy. While the Emancipation Proclamation was instituted in 1863, it was two and a half years later on June 19th, 1865, that all confederate states seceded to the Union and adopted the proclamation, thereby bringing an end to slavery in the United States.

Despite its importance in American History, Juneteenth did not become a federally recognized holiday until 2021 after the rise of social justice movements. Today, it is used to celebrate Black Americans and learn more about American History.

Ways you can celebrate Juneteenth:

Read a book! Learn more about Juneteenth, Black American History, and social justice issues by exploring your options at the local libraries. Can’t go out? Then check out the Internet Archive, where you can browse and check out books online all for free. Here’s some suggestions to get you started.

• Coming of Age in Mississippi: https://archive.org/details/comingofageinmis0000mood
• Ella Baker and the Black Freedom Movement: https://archive.org/details/ellabakerblackfr00barb
• To be young, gifted, and black : Lorraine Hansberry in her own words: https://archive.org/details/tobeyounggiftedb00nemi_0
• Looking to introduce your children to the history of Juneteeth? Check this out! Juneteenth by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson: https://archive.org/details/juneteenth0000nels

Support local Black-owned businesses! Check out the Support Black Business 607 Facebook group for suggestions: https://www.facebook.com/groups/188943112400257/

Check out a local celebration! There is one today from 12pm-4pm at Assata Shakur Park (formerly Columbus Park) on 50 Carroll Street in Binghamton!