Le Juneteenth en deuxième année marqué par des défis commerciaux et politiques.

Juneteenth, which celebrates the end of slavery in America, is facing new challenges as it marks its second federal birthday. Policymakers in 45 states have proposed 283 laws restricting what teachers can say about race, racism, and American history. Some of these laws include language that would forbid any teachings that could cause a student to feel « anguish, guilt, or any other form of psychological distress » because of their race. Meanwhile, the popularity of the holiday is leading to mixed emotions as scores of Juneteenth products, from apparel to paper plates and party supplies, underscore the growing commercialism surrounding June 19th.

Black scholars argue Juneteenth is an important date to tell the entire history of the United States, particularly given present events. Historians say the history of the holiday is important because though it does show dark chapters of abuse, violence, and slavery, it can also share the many success stories that have not been told. That includes recognizing the contributions of people like the United States Colored Troops, who helped bring the message of freedom to the people of Galveston, Texas. States with laws banning instruction on items that could invoke feelings of guilt misunderstand that Juneteenth could be looked at as an exercise in repair.

Juneteenth could be a perfect day to begin educating others and addressing disparities. Leaders like Sue Johnson, founder and executive director of Galveston’s Nia Cultural Center, are finding new ways to educate youth on the importance of the day. Johnson’s group has started the Defense Fund Freedom School in Galveston, a summer literacy program based on the civil rights movement. The students learn not only about Juneteenth but also other aspects of Black history that are often untaught in schools.

Keywords: Juneteenth, slavery, American history, racism, commercialism, reparations, education, Black history, United States Colored Troops, disparities.