As we prepare to join the rest of the country in observing Juneteenth, the day that celebrates the end of slavery in the United States, we want to share a few resources for learning opportunities and events. We observe Juneteenth as a way for our country to honor the experiences of Black Americans and to make good on our founding principles.
In many ways, we are only beginning the work that needs to be done to nurture opportunity and ensure justice for every citizen. The decision last year to make Juneteenth a federal holiday was an acknowledgement that our country’s official narrative of liberty and justice for all is incomplete and inadequate. To celebrate Juneteenth as a country is only a step, but it’s a step in the right direction. At NNJLS we remain committed to equal justice for all, on Juneteenth and every day.
Below are links to events this weekend in Bayonne and Jersey City, and a few more around the state, as well as thoughts from staff at the National Museum of African American History and Culture on the importance of the holiday.
If you have additional resources to share, please leave them in the comments!