Juneteenth: Teaching Kids to Honor, Not Appropriate, Black History

As June rolls around, summer fun takes center stage, with kids enjoying their break and stores filling up with seasonal essentials like pool noodles, sunscreen, and Pride-themed items. However, in the midst of these celebrations, we must also remember the commercialization of holidays, particularly Juneteenth, which is a recent addition to America’s federal holidays. Juneteenth, while rising in prominence, is beginning to experience the same commercialization issues that have plagued other cultural celebrations such as St. Patrick’s Day and Cinco de Mayo.

What Is Juneteenth and When Did It Start?

Juneteenth, celebrated in African-American communities since 1866, marks the day enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Although it became a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth’s true history and significance remain a learning opportunity for many, particularly non-Black Americans. Historically, Juneteenth celebrations were centered around church gatherings, picnics, and community events, complete with parades and festive foods, creating a joyous occasion celebrating freedom.

Commercializing Juneteenth: A Missed Opportunity

As Juneteenth gains popularity, some companies are turning it into a commercial event, such as Walmart’s controversial Celebration Edition Juneteenth ice cream, which borrowed a flavor from a Black-owned business without credit or compensation. The Indianapolis Children’s Museum also faced backlash for its “Juneteenth Watermelon Salad,” which had no explanation of its relevance to the holiday, inadvertently reinforcing harmful stereotypes. These instances highlight the need to honor Juneteenth, not profit from it or diminish its cultural significance.

Understanding the Diversity of Juneteenth Experiences

Not every Black American family has the same experience with Juneteenth. For some, it’s a long-standing family tradition, while others, like Corey Williams, DEI consultant, only discovered it later in life. Juneteenth’s history and impact are deeply personal, and it’s important for outsiders to approach it with respect and understanding, avoiding the temptation to generalize or appropriate.

How to Respectfully Observe Juneteenth as a Non-Black Family

For families who want to teach their children about Juneteenth, there are many respectful ways to engage with the holiday. Start by discussing the history of African enslavement, read books on Juneteenth, or watch shows like the “Blackish” episode on the topic. Supporting Black-owned businesses year-round also shows a deeper commitment to honoring the holiday. Moreover, parents raising Black or biracial children should incorporate Juneteenth into their racial socialization but remember that learning about Black history and culture should be a continuous effort, not a once-a-year event.

What Not to Do on Juneteenth

When observing Juneteenth, there are clear boundaries to respect. Do not attend celebrations uninvited or dress inappropriately. Avoid hosting your own Juneteenth event or purchasing branded corporate products that trivialize the holiday. Most importantly, do not use Juneteenth for self-promotion on social media. True observance of the holiday involves understanding the historical trauma and ongoing struggle for racial justice.

Acknowledging Trauma and Embracing Hope

Laura Morse, a therapist and advocate for mental health, emphasizes that Juneteenth is not just a celebration but a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality. After the events of 2020, Juneteenth became more than just a federal holiday—it symbolized the resilience of Black Americans and their vital contribution to the nation’s history and future. For all of us, Juneteenth provides a chance to pause, reflect, and take part in the collective healing process necessary for racial justice.

By focusing on education, respect, and ongoing commitment, we can teach our children to honor Juneteenth properly, ensuring it remains a meaningful commemoration of freedom, not an opportunity for cultural appropriation.