Happy Juneteenth!

Hey there Yo!-Yo! Fam. Happy Freedom Day to you.

For those that aren’t aware of what Juneteenth is, this is a commemorative day in African-American history where slaves were finally ‘officially’ freed. Yes, the Emancipation Proclamation was signed 2 years prior (Jan 1, 1863), but unfortunately not all states were “united” on that decision. On June 19, 1865, the final enslaved state, Texas, declared their slaves freed after General Gordon Granger commanded orders of the proclamation be in effect. While African-Americans recognize that July 4th is an important date for the Independence of America, Juneteenth is how we acknowledge and celebrate freedom, rights, as well as reflect on those before us as we live out the future that they prayed for. And with the way things have been going this past year, we need to celebrate this holiday to the max.

So in learning more about Juneteenth, what do we do? How should we celebrate? Do we treat it like Black History Month or 4th of July? Do we wear the traditional red, white, and blue colors of the latest Juneteenth flag or the African heritage colors of red, black, and green? These are all very valid questions, especially considering that there aren’t many celebration supplies that can be purchased at your local store for this holiday. I say, make it how YOU’D like to celebrate it. Whether you’d like to represent our heritage or represent the moment where we officially were acknowledged as Americans, do it in ways you love and create a tradition. And I wouldn’t be Yo! Mama Mesh without given you “some pocket change to take with you”, i.e. passing along some ideas for how you could celebrate and even get the kids engaged.

Decorations: African heritage colors (red, black, green) tablecloths, plasticware, streamers, balloons; American/Juneteenth flag colors (red, white, blue) tablecloths, plasticware, streamers, balloons, stars;

Food: Typical BBQ/family reunion-type meals OR Soul food; Desserts for the kiddos could include red/white/blue Rice Krispy treats, Oreos dipped in white chocolate with red/white/blue sprinkles, and even a festive red/white/blue slush drink. (See Pinterest for tons of recipes)

Educational video: Here is a really nice visual breakdown that will help you and/or the kids better understand the meaning behind Juneteenth https://youtu.be/T2HAVuld0_0

Books: Juneteenth Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, Juneteenth for Mazie by Floyd Cooper, Juneteenth Jamboree by Carole Boston Weatherford, and even a great series of books for all year-round for your advanced reader, one of which called The STEAM Chasers: We Made That by Doresa A. Jennings.

Activities for the kids:

Crafts

1.      Coloring sheets – There are some of the Juneteenth flag (but they may require joining some teacher sites). For those of us who are not, there is a teacher blog with some free resources. Check this site out http://teacherblog.evan-moor.com/2020/06/16/celebrating-african-american-artists-and-writers-for-juneteenth/

2.      Juneteenth paper hat – The pics below show a quick and easy way to make a fun hat for this special day. Grab some construction paper or cardstock. Cut into strips (long-side). Print out a fun Juneteenth design (Canva has some good ones). Then glue, tape, or staple the strips of cardstock onto the sides of the square-cut printed design. Wrap around the child’s head, then staple, tape, or use sticky dots to connect the two strips together. You’re all set!

3.      Bubbles – You can make bubbles from scratch as well as wands (out of pipe cleaners). For the ingredients of the bubbles, take a peek at my previous Science week post. https://www.yomamasworld.com/post/summer-at-home-program-science-week

4.      Freedom ring – You can again use pipe cleaners or tinsel to make rings that look like fireworks. Visit https://www.fantasticfunandlearning.com/fireworks-ring-craft.html for details

Games

1.      Double dutch – This was a staple activity in the urban African-American community and seems like it’s becoming a lost art. I promised myself I would not let my daughter grow up without knowing (or at least attempting to learn lol) how to jump rope.

2.      All the family favorites - UNO, Dominoes, Black Deuce, Spades, Monopoly, etc. Have a blast!

3.      Black History Trivia & Bingo

4.      As the sun sets, you can throw ‘Pops’ or some call them ‘Snaps’ as well as light Sparklers fun outdoor fun in the dark.

If you’re looking for somewhere to go, check Eventbrite or local social media groups as there are many places hosting festivals and activities.

Whatever you choose to do to celebrate, enjoy and be safe!

Love you all,

Yo! Mama Mesh

Puzzle available in my SHOP: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTjWW58Dj/