Teaching Our Children about Juneteenth

14.06.22 03:32 PM By Felicia Sutherland

At its heart, Juneteenth is a day of celebration. It’s a celebration of the journey and freedom of Black people in the United States of America, and a great opportunity to acknowledge the many obstacles and contributions that Black people have made to American culture.

The Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, had established that all enslaved people in Confederate states in rebellion against the Union “shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free.” But it wasn't until June 19th, 1865 that enslaved people in Galveston, Texas were informed that they were truly free. Although an instrumental piece of American history, Juneteenth did not become recognized as a federal holiday in the United States until June 17, 2021. 

It is essential to raise children that understand and appreciation all aspects of American history and Juneteenth is a significant part of our American history. We were privileged to partner with the amazing Librarian & Professional Nanny Nanny Miss Monique to create a list of child age appropriate books that will help parents and caregivers educate our littles on the history of Juneteenth and why it is so important to Black American people today. 

Children's Books About Juneteenth

The Juneteenth Story
By Alliah L. Agostini
Ages 6-9 years old

Juneteenth for Mazie 
By Floyd Cooper
Ages: 9-12 years old

What is Juneteenth? 
By Kristi Jewel
Ages: 8 to 12 years old

The ABC’s of Black History 
By Rio Cortez
Ages: 3- 8 years old

All Different Now: Juneteenth, the First Day of Freedom 
By Angela Johnson
Ages: 5- 9 years old


Freedom Day: A Juneteenth Celebration for Kids activity book by Ama Kerikeri Yawson
Ages: All ages


Free at Last A Juneteenth Story by Sojourner Kincaid Rolle
Ages: 4 to 8 years old 

If you are interested in upgrading your children's library to represent the world we live in visit Nanny Miss Monique's website: https://www.nannymissmonique.com/ to get a curated library with books that match your child's interest but also is diverse and inclusive. You can also follow her on Instagram @Nannymissmonique

Felicia Sutherland