Juneteenth – A Documentary

What is the story of Juneteenth? Why do we celebrate this newly designated federal holiday, and how is it connected to one of the most cherished American ideals — freedom? Annenberg Classroom recently released a new short documentary, “Juneteenth,” exploring the history of the holiday and illustrating how and why freedom and citizenship were intertwined.

The film features interviews with Ms. Opal Lee, the “grandmother of Juneteenth,” and leading scholars from throughout the country, including Martha S. Jones, Edna Greene Medford, and Mary Frances Berry. Also available with the film are teacher-developed lesson plans for both middle and high school students.