What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom commemorating June 19, 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger read the federal orders in Galveston, Texas, that all previously enslaved people in Texas were free.
Why is it important?
Although the Emancipation Proclamation was signed years earlier in 1863, it was not until Juneteenth in 1865 that the last of the remaining enslaved African Americans were freed.
Want to learn more?
June 19th. It's an important day to know. It is the day that celebrates the freedom of the last enslaved African Americans in the United States. They were freed on June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas. This was over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued, but African Americans in Texas had not yet heard the news that they were free. One reason was because the information was withheld by those who benefited from enslaved people. Plus, there were no telephones or computers, so information and news passed across the country slowly.
Learn More by Downloading Our Juneteenth Guide
In collaboration with BlackSpace NYC, University of Oklahoma Gibbs College of Architecture and with the support of Oklahoma Humanities, BlackSpace Oklahoma's Northeast Storytelling Project was created to explore community assets, values, identities, and ideas, within Black neighborhood spaces in Northeast Oklahoma City.
The project lives on in partnership with the Metropolitan Library System to continue to collect the stories of NE OKC.
Contribute your Northeast Oklahoma City story by contacting the Metro Library Special Collections & Research Department.
Hear Their Stories
Research Databases
Books & Documentaries
Events
Juneteenth Creative Writing Chapbook
Have you always wanted to explore creative writing but never had the chance? Pick up one of our special Juneteenth-inspired creative writing chapbooks filled with creative writing exercises meant to strengthen your creative muscles!
Emancipation Day (Juneteenth) Family Fun Take Home Kit
June 19th (also known as Juneteenth) is Emancipation Day - a federal holiday to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people in the USA.
Disclaimer(s)
Warning: Kit contains small parts that could represent a choking hazard. It is not intended for children under 3. It is encouraged that an adult supervise children while using this Metropolitan Library System Take & Make Bag.
We can only guarantee one kit per household and per registration (if required).
It is encouraged that an adult supervise children while using this Metropolitan Library System Take & Make Kit.
Join us for a creative, hands-on celebration at our Macramé Juneteenth Flag Workshop! No macramé experience? No problem! If you can tie your shoes (or at least convincingly pretend to), you’re more than qualified.
Juneteenth DIY Bead Keychain Take-Home Kits
Celebrate Juneteenth with this simple, hands-on craft for ages 6 and up. Make a custom bead keychain using colorful beads and a key ring while reflecting on the meaning of the holiday. A fun and creative take-home activity for all ages.
Disclaimer(s)
Warning: Kit contains small parts that could represent a choking hazard. It is not intended for children under 3. It is encouraged that an adult supervise children while using this Metropolitan Library System Take & Make Bag.
It is encouraged that an adult supervise children while using this Metropolitan Library System Take & Make Kit.
Moonlit Massacre: Author Talk & Signing with OKC Councilman James Cooper
Step into the shadows of history—where fact and fiction collide.
Disclaimer(s)
The library makes every effort to ensure our programs can be enjoyed by all. If you have any concerns about accessibility or need to request specific accommodations, please contact the library.
We cannot guarantee that food served at this program has not come into contact with tree nuts, soy, or other allergens. Accordingly, the Library will not be liable for such harm to any individual resulting from such allergens.
Be Advised: This program may be photographed and/or videotaped for publicity purposes.
By Attending, you consent: To the use of your voice and likeness in future publicity uses that contain content from this event. If you do not wish to be on camera, please let us know.
For more information visit our Photography & Video Disclaimer
Have you always wanted to explore creative writing but never had the chance? Are you looking for a supportive community of writers with whom you can share your work?