by Brandon B.

What greater place to celebrate the Juneteenth holiday than with the library? Juneteenth (short for “June Nineteenth”) is the day on which federal troops traveled to Galveston, Texas in 1865 to free all enslaved people. Even though this happened two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed, we honor Juneteenth as the day that slavery officially ended everywhere in the U.S.

Since 2021, Juneteenth marks the federal holiday when we celebrate Black freedom and liberation. However, we still have a way to go toward true equity, with continued violence toward Black people by law enforcement, discrimination in job and housing opportunities, and the lingering consequences of slavery. In addition, many school districts have now decided to pull Black authors and titles from their curriculum due to fear of critical race theory. If you have an HCLS library card, you have the opportunity to acquire knowledge which can facilitate change.

At Central Branch, visit our Equity Resource Center which offers inspirational books, DVDs, and audio materials for all ages. One informative book to read is The Kaepernick Effect: Taking a Knee, Changing the World by Dave Zirin, which explains how former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick risked his career and became an activist for Black social justice. Another great read is the 1619 Project by Nikole Hannah-Jones, which provides an historical analysis of the first people of African descent who arrived in the U.S.

Juneteenth by R.J. Bailey gives children a great understanding of why Juneteenth is significant. Ways to Welcome by Linda Ashman is another wonderful children’s book, illustrating how creating a friendly and welcoming environment can have a lasting impact on a child’s life.

At the end of the day, Juneteenth is also an opportunity for the country to heal and reflect. Can America cure our racial divide? Or do we just continue to live our lives, business as usual? Please consider these ideas and thoughts as you enjoy and celebrate this Juneteenth holiday.

Brandon is a Customer Service Specialist at HCLS Central Branch who loves reading, football, and taking nice long walks around his neighborhood.