How Can I Teach My Child About Juneteenth in Canada? A Guide for Parents
By Julie Diamond, OCT
For further learning, check out our previous blog “How Can I Help My Child Learn About Black History at Home?”
While Juneteenth is a U.S. holiday, its message of freedom, justice, and resilience has deep relevance for Canadian families too. As parents and educators, it’s important to help our children understand the significance of this day not only as a part of American history, but as a lesson in human rights, empathy, and the ongoing fight against racism everywhere.
In this blog, we’ll explore what Juneteenth is, why it matters, and how you can talk about it with your children in ways that are thoughtful, age-appropriate, and connected to their lives here in Canada.
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth (short for June Nineteenth) commemorates June 19, 1865, the day enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas were finally informed of their freedom—over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been signed by President Lincoln. It became a day of celebration in Black communities across the U.S., honoring the end of slavery and the continued fight for equality and justice.
Juneteenth was officially recognized as a federal holiday in the United States in 2021.
Why Talk About Juneteenth in Canada?
Though Juneteenth is an American holiday, its themes of freedom, resistance, and equity cross borders. Canada has its own history of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism - much of which is still not widely taught.
By talking about Juneteenth, parents can:
Encourage kids to think critically about justice and fairness.
Acknowledge the shared struggles of Black communities in North America.
Support values of inclusion, empathy, and equity in their homes and schools.
Help children recognize that learning about racism isn’t just about the past—it’s about shaping a more just future.
How to Explain Juneteenth to Kids
Here are some age-appropriate ways to start the conversation:
For Ages 5–8:
“A long time ago, Black people were treated unfairly and forced to work without being paid. Even after the law said they should be free, it took a long time for everyone to be told. Juneteenth is the day the last group of enslaved people in the U.S. found out they were free. People celebrate this day to remember their strength and joy.”
Activities:
Read a picture book like Juneteenth for Mazie by Floyd Cooper
Colour flags or draw pictures of freedom and hope
Watch a short, gentle video together that explains Juneteenth like this song from Sesame Street.
For Ages 9–13:
“Juneteenth marks a powerful moment in history: when the last enslaved people in the U.S. were finally told they were free. It reminds us that freedom didn’t come easily or all at once, and that people had to fight for their rights. Even though we live in Canada, understanding Juneteenth helps us reflect on our own country’s history and how we can work toward fairness today.”
Activities:
Watch a kid-friendly explainer like BrainPOP’s video on Juneteenth
Research Black Canadian historical figures (e.g., Viola Desmond, Harriet Tubman’s connection to the Underground Railroad)
Discuss how freedom and fairness show up in their own lives and communities
Connect Juneteenth to Canadian History
Canada often portrays itself as a haven for escaped enslaved people through the Underground Railroad and while that’s part of the story, it’s not the full picture.
Slavery did exist in Canada until it was abolished in 1834
Black Canadians have faced segregation in schools, housing, and jobs.
Anti-Black racism remains a current issue across the country.
Talking about Juneteenth can be a meaningful entry point into exploring Canada’s own Black history, from early settlements like Africville in Nova Scotia to present-day movements for racial equity.
Books & Resources to Explore Together
Books:
Juneteenth by Van G. Garrett (ages 6–10)
Freedom Over Me by Ashley Bryan (ages 8–12)
The Kids Book of Black Canadian History by Rosemary Sadlier
Viola Desmond Won’t Be Budged! by Jody Nyasha Warner
Online Resources:
CBC Kids News articles on Black History
Ontario Black History Society (OBHS.ca)
Black History resources from the Canadian Museum for Human Rights
Keep the Conversation Going
Juneteenth isn’t just a one-day lesson—it’s a doorway to deeper conversations about justice, identity, and change. By creating space for your child to learn about this important day, you’re helping raise a generation that understands the value of freedom and the importance of standing up for what’s right.
Let’s continue learning together.