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
Celebrate Juneteenth by creating some DIY decor! Today we will be using a beginner-friendly pattern to crochet a few small stars in Juneteenth colors. Add them to a jar, make a garland, or necklace, or whatever you like!
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.
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!
Belle Isle Library will host a special book club on June 20, 2026 at Second Story Books and Cafe.