What’s Included in These Juneteenth Activities
Juneteenth, observed each year on June 19, marks a pivotal moment in U.S. history—the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Texas were finally informed of their freedom. Although the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued more than two years earlier, its enforcement was delayed in many parts of the country, making Juneteenth a powerful reminder of both freedom and unfinished justice.
These classroom resources help students explore the history and meaning of Juneteenth while engaging with broader themes of emancipation, Reconstruction, and the legacy of slavery in the United States. Lessons provide historical context alongside opportunities for discussion, reflection, and connection to present-day civic and cultural life.
Designed for PreK–12 classrooms, the collection includes lesson plans, activities, and teaching materials that support age-appropriate learning across grade levels. In addition to historical study, many resources highlight Black joy, resilience, and cultural traditions, helping students understand Juneteenth as both a commemoration of freedom and a celebration of community.
Whether you are teaching Juneteenth as part of a U.S. history unit, social studies curriculum, or a broader exploration of culture and identity, these resources offer thoughtful, classroom-ready support for meaningful instruction.