Have you ever heard of "Juneteenth"?
Juneteenth celebrates the day Texas slaves found out they were free. When the Civil War ended, there were no Union soldiers in Texas to deliver the news that slavery had ended. The news didn’t make it to Texas until June 19, 1865. “Juneteenth” became a Texas state holiday in 1980 and has become a popular celebration across the country.
Many communities remember this day by having picnics, baseball games, family reunions, dedications and educational programs. Take a look at these great books about Juneteeth to find out how you can celebrate this holiday with your friends and family.
Juneteenth for Mazie: Mazie wants to stay up way past her bedtime to celebrate the day her ancestors were no longer slaves.
All Different Now: Everything changes for a young plantation girl and her family when they learn they are free on a hot day in June.
Juneteenth Jamboree: Cassandra, who has just moved to Texas, finds out about the tradition behind this holiday as the community celebrates.
Juneteenth: Learn the history behind Juneteenth, including slavery in the United States, the American Civil War and how Juneteenth became a Texas state holiday.
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