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Juneteenth Celebrated In Cities Across America

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As the celebration of Black American liberation and a commemorative day remembering Union soldiers announcing the freedom of slaves in Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865 — more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation — scroll below for some ways you can honor Juneteenth with your loved ones.

 

Homeschooling kids in the dining room

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Get Educated

Unfortunately, because the importance of the holiday isn’t generally taught in schools, many — both old and young — don’t really know much about Juneteenth or how meaningful it is to the Black community. With that in mind, using the day to become educated on the traditions and history associated with the holiday (ie. drinking red beverages, its importance in Texas, the symbolism of the flag, etc…) are all things you can learn up on with your family.

Grandmother and granddaughter doing a video conference on digital tablet at home

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Attend Virtual Juneteenth Events

Relatedly, there are lots of Juneteenth-related virtual events that you can participate in by yourself or with your loved ones. From virtual block parties to all-day programming produced by some of the country’s most informative African-American history focused museums, if you’re interested in registering for a virtual event for your family to attend some of the happenings going down this weekend include:

  • Juneteenth Joy Virtual Celebration via the Los Angles Public Library: “Join the LAPL’s Teen’Scape department, Black Being, and DJ pastelShade for a virtual celebration and share the connection we have through song in this communal music experience. This event will invite movement through dancing, ancestor remembrance through ritual, and an opportunity to collectively celebrate our liberation and resilience.”
  • Juneteenth Freedom Festival via Circa 1865 Inc.: A celebration of African-American culture featuring live music, guest speakers, workshops, vendors, and more…
  • Juneteenth Virtual Celebration via StepAfrika!: “StepAfrika! returns to the virtual theater to commemorate Juneteenth. Premiering three unique works, TraneLittle Rock Nine, and The Movement, the virtual celebration will honor and embody the determination, resilience, and reclamation of freedom with newly filmed choreographic masterpieces inspired by the African American experience.
  • 30th Annual Juneteenth Celebration via The Amistad Center: A virtual program and DJ party where viewers can look forward to a spectacular night of music, song, art, and celebration.
  • Various Events via The National Museum of African American History & Culture: The prestigious museum will have a handful of Juneteenth virtual events occurring throughout the course of the day — from “Black Smoke: African Americans and the United States of Barbecue,” to “Community Soundstage: A Conversation with Amythyst Kiah.”
Senior African Woman in kitchen seasoning chicken with grandson in the background

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Break Bread With A Juneteenth Menu

Barbequing and cookouts have always been a huge part of Black culture — but doing so while including recipes that are particularly tied to Juneteenth will be a great way to celebrate while also paying homage to our ancestors.

As per Leslie Walker, the Manager of Social Justice and Scholarly Programs at The National Museum of African American History & Culture, her grandmother once shared with her that “the menu should consist of easily prepared foods that can sit outside for an extended period without going bad such as salads and pickled side dishes.”

Classic Juneteeth Menu Food Recipes

68 Recipes From Black Creators to Celebrate Juneteenth

Smiling grandmothers with family during party

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Connect With Your Community

Whether it means having a small family reunion or going to a local block party in celebration of the holiday, Juneteenth is usually a time where Black people come together to be connected with those around them, remember our ancestors, and celebrate life. For the record, it’s considered a national holiday in several states across the country, and that said, cities and towns all over are having events that you and your family can attend.

Juneteenth Events Around the U.S.

African American woman opening packages of shoes on sofa

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Shop Black-Owned Businesses

While it’s important to support Black-owned businesses year-round — why not show some extra love on a day that’s specifically dedicated to celebrating our community?

Investing in and uplifting Black entrepreneurs and business owners slowly but surely builds towards securing wealthier Black communities and generational wealth as a foundation for other Black people to succeed. With that in mind, patronize a family member’s business or shop some of the ones in the round-ups below.

Black-Owned Home Decors Businesses

Black Women-Owned Shoe Brands

Black Women-Owned Health And Wellness Brands

Black-Owned Sustainable Clothing Businesses

Black Women-Owned Candle Companies

Black Businesses To Shop On Amazon

Black-Owned Small Businesses