Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19th, 1865, the news of emancipation finally reached enslaved people in Texas, marking a pivotal moment in the fight for freedom and equality.
Celebrating Juneteenth at work is a powerful way to honor this historic event and promote diversity and inclusion. By acknowledging and embracing this important milestone, companies can create a welcoming environment that values and respects the contributions of all employees, regardless of their backgrounds.
This article shares 45 unique ways to celebrate Juneteenth at your workplace. The ideas help educate employees while having fun and bring people together through shared experiences.
Get creative with activities that spread awareness and appreciation!
Educational Activities
Learning about Juneteenth is an important part of celebrating it at work. Here are some fun and interesting ways to educate yourself and your coworkers:
1. Juneteenth Virtual Museum Tours
Many museums, such as the National Museum of African American History and Culture, offer virtual tours that focus on Juneteenth and the history of slavery in America.
Encourage your team to take these tours together and discuss what they’ve learned. You could even organize a virtual “field trip” where everyone visits the same museum exhibit and then gathers for a video call to share their thoughts.
2. Juneteenth Book Club
Choose a book that explores the history and significance of Juneteenth, such as “The Warmth of Other Suns” by Isabel Wilkerson or “On Juneteenth” by Annette Gordon-Reed.
Get your team to read the book and then host a discussion session where everyone can share their insights and reactions. You could even invite the author to join your discussion virtually and answer questions from your team.
3. Screening Juneteenth Films
There are many powerful films and documentaries that explore the history of Juneteenth and the African-American experience, such as “13th” by Ava DuVernay or “Miss Juneteenth” by Channing Godfrey Peoples.
Host a movie screening at work (either in-person or virtually) and gather your team to watch and discuss the film together. You could even make it a regular event, with a different Juneteenth-related film each month leading up to the holiday.
4. Invite Juneteenth Speakers
Reach out to historians, activists, or community leaders who are knowledgeable about Juneteenth and invite them to give a talk to your team.
Invite your team to ask questions and engage in discussion with the speaker. If you can’t find a local speaker, consider hosting a virtual event with a speaker from another city or state.
5. Juneteenth History Trivia Contest
Create a trivia game with questions about Juneteenth history, African-American culture, and the civil rights movement.
Divide your team into groups and have them compete against each other to see who knows the most. You could even make it a company-wide event and offer prizes for the winning team.
6. Listen to Juneteenth Podcasts
There are many podcasts that explore the history and significance of Juneteenth, such as “Black History Buff” or “Juneteenth Jubilee”. Encourage your team to listen to an episode (or a whole series) and then gather to discuss what they’ve learned.
You could even start your own company podcast where employees share their personal reflections on Juneteenth and what it means to them.
7. Juneteenth Research Project
Assign each team member a different topic related to Juneteenth (such as the history of the holiday, the Emancipation Proclamation, or the role of Black soldiers in the Civil War) and ask them to research and present their findings to the group.
Motivate everyone to be creative with their presentations, using videos, slideshows, or even live performances to bring their research to life. Compile all the presentations into a company-wide Juneteenth education resource that everyone can refer back to.
8. African-American History Lunch & Learn
Host a series of lunch & learn sessions focused on different aspects of African-American history, from the earliest days of slavery to the civil rights movement and beyond.
Invite experts or community leaders to present on each topic, or encourage team members to volunteer to lead a session on a topic they’re passionate about.
Provide lunch for attendees and ask everyone to stick around for a discussion after each presentation.
9. Hire Juneteenth Storytellers
Bring in professional storytellers or actors to perform stories, poems, or speeches related to Juneteenth and the African-American experience.
Look for storytellers who specialize in African-American folklore, slave narratives, or civil rights-era speeches. Get your team to reflect on the stories they’ve heard and share their own family histories and personal experiences.
10. Juneteenth Factoid Email Series
In the weeks leading up to Juneteenth, send out daily or weekly emails with interesting facts, quotes, or stories related to the holiday.
You could highlight a different historical figure each day, share a timeline of events leading up to the first Juneteenth celebration, or provide links to educational resources and events happening in your community.
Your team can reply to the emails with their own reflections, questions, or personal stories related to Juneteenth.
Cultural Appreciation
11. Celebrate Black Art/Music/Dance
One great way to appreciate African-American culture during Juneteenth is by showcasing the incredible contributions of Black artists, musicians, and dancers.
You could decorate your office with artwork by Black painters and sculptors, create a playlist of music by Black composers and performers, or even invite a local African dance troupe to give a live performance.
Celebrating the rich artistic traditions of the African-American community is a powerful way to honor the spirit of Juneteenth.
12. Juneteenth Poetry Slam
Hosting a Juneteenth poetry slam is another fantastic way to celebrate Black cultural heritage. Invite your team members to write and perform original poems inspired by the themes of freedom, resilience, and empowerment that are central to the Juneteenth holiday.
You could even reach out to local poets or spoken word artists to join your event and share their work. A poetry slam is a great opportunity for everyone to express themselves creatively and connect with the deeper meanings of Juneteenth.
13. Juneteenth Food Tasting
Food is a huge part of any Juneteenth celebration, so why not host a tasting event featuring traditional African-American dishes?
You could serve up classics like barbecued ribs, collard greens, black-eyed peas, and cornbread, or explore more regional specialties like Texan strawberry soda or Louisiana gumbo.
Invite your team to share their own family recipes and the stories behind them. Enjoying delicious food together is a wonderful way to build community and appreciate the flavors of African-American cuisine.
14. Make Juneteenth Crafts
Getting crafty is a fun and hands-on way to celebrate Juneteenth with your team.
You could organize a workshop where everyone learns to make traditional African crafts like kente cloth, beaded jewelry, or even drums. Or, you could focus on Juneteenth-specific projects like creating red, black, and green flags or decorations.
Crafting together is a great opportunity to chat, bond, and express your creativity while also learning about the symbols and meanings of Juneteenth.
15. African Dance/Drumming Class
For a truly immersive cultural experience, consider bringing in a professional instructor to teach your team some traditional African dance moves or drumming techniques.
Many of the rhythms and steps that we associate with African-American music and dance today have their roots in West African cultural traditions.
Learning to move and groove together is an amazing way to appreciate the incredible artistry and resilience of the African diaspora, and to celebrate the joy and freedom of Juneteenth.
16. Black Haircare/Beauty Workshop
Hosting a workshop on Black haircare and beauty traditions is another wonderful way to appreciate African-American culture during Juneteenth.
Invite a local stylist or beautician who specializes in natural Black hair to teach your team about the history and techniques of protective styling, braiding, and more.
You could also explore the cultural significance of different hairstyles and accessories, and even try out some fun looks together.
17. Juneteenth Fashion Show
Fashion has always been an important form of expression and resistance in the African-American community, from the colorful patterns of traditional African textiles to the iconic styles of the Harlem Renaissance and the civil rights movement.
Hosting a Juneteenth fashion show is a fun and creative way to celebrate this rich history and showcase the talents of Black designers and models.
Encourage your team to put together outfits inspired by different eras and icons of African-American fashion, and strut their stuff on a virtual or in-person runway.
18. Learn About Juneteenth Flags/Symbols
The Juneteenth flag, with its distinctive star and bursting “new horizon,” is a powerful symbol of the holiday’s themes of hope, freedom, and progress.
Learning about the history and meaning of this flag, as well as other symbols associated with Juneteenth (like the color red, which represents resilience and sacrifice), is a great way to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the day.
You could create a display or presentation showcasing the different elements of Juneteenth iconography, or even design your own Juneteenth-inspired logos or graphics as a team.
19. Explore Juneteenth Traditions by Region
While Juneteenth is celebrated nationwide, the holiday has its roots in Texas and many of its earliest and most iconic traditions originated there.
However, as African-American communities spread across the country, they brought their Juneteenth customs with them and adapted them to new regions and contexts.
Learning about the unique ways that Juneteenth is celebrated in different parts of the US (like the rodeos and barbecues of Texas, the parades and street festivals of the Midwest, or the beach parties and fish fries of the coasts) is a fascinating way to appreciate the diversity and creativity of African-American culture.
Volunteering & Fundraising
20. Volunteer at Black Community Orgs
One meaningful way to celebrate Juneteenth is by volunteering at local organizations that serve the Black community, such as community centers, schools, or advocacy groups.
Your team could spend the day helping with tasks like tutoring, meal preparation, or event setup. Volunteering is a great way to give back and make a tangible difference in your community.
21. Social Justice Fundraising Drive
Another impactful way to mark Juneteenth is by organizing a fundraising drive for organizations that work towards racial justice and equity.
You could choose a specific cause or group to support, and encourage your team members to make donations. You could even set up a crowdfunding page or organize a virtual auction or raffle to raise money.
22. Donation Matching Campaign
To maximize the impact of your fundraising efforts, consider setting up a donation matching campaign where your company agrees to match employee contributions dollar for dollar.
This is a great way to show your commitment to the cause and encourage everyone to give what they can. You could even extend the campaign to your customers or partners to expand your reach.
23. Advocacy Letter Writing Campaign
Juneteenth is also an opportune time to advocate for political and social change. One way to do this is by organizing a letter writing campaign where team members write to their elected officials about issues related to racial justice, such as police reform, voting rights, or economic equity.
You could provide templates or talking points to help people craft their messages.
24. Community Park/School Cleanups
Hosting a community cleanup is another great way to celebrate Juneteenth through service. Your team could spend the day picking up litter, planting flowers, or painting murals at a local park, playground, or school. This is a fun and rewarding way to beautify your neighborhood and show pride in your community.
Team Building
25. Juneteenth Office Games/Competitions
Inject some friendly competition into your Juneteenth celebration with office games and contests. You could organize a trivia tournament, a Juneteenth-themed scavenger hunt, or even a baking or crafting competition. These activities are a great way to bond with colleagues and show off your skills.
26. Juneteenth Virtual Escape Room
For a more immersive team building experience, try a Juneteenth-themed virtual escape room. You could work together to solve puzzles and uncover clues related to Black history and culture. This is a fun and engaging way to learn and collaborate with your team.
27. Juneteenth Field day/Sports Challenges
Get everyone moving with a Juneteenth field day filled with outdoor games and sports challenges. You could organize relay races, tug-of-war matches, or even a friendly basketball or volleyball tournament. This is a great way to enjoy some fresh air and exercise while celebrating the holiday.
28. Virtual Juneteenth Cooking Class
Bond with your team over some delicious food by hosting a virtual Juneteenth cooking class.
You could learn to make traditional dishes like red velvet cake, collard greens, or fried fish. This is a fun and tasty way to appreciate African-American culinary traditions.
29. Juneteenth Themed Scavenger Hunt
Send your team on a Juneteenth-themed scavenger hunt around your office, neighborhood, or even online. You could hide clues related to Black history and culture, and challenge everyone to work together to solve the puzzles.
30. Juneteenth Charades
Put your acting skills to the test with a game of Juneteenth charades. You could act out famous Black historical figures, cultural icons, or even scenes from Juneteenth celebrations. This is a hilarious and engaging way to learn and bond with your team.
31. Juneteenth Office Olympics
Host your own Juneteenth office Olympics with a series of fun and silly competitions. You could have events like a stapler relay race, a paper airplane throwing contest, or even a “synchronized chair dancing” routine. This is a great way to let loose and show your team spirit.
32. Juneteenth Themed Game Shows
Create your own Juneteenth-themed game shows like Jeopardy, Family Feud, or Wheel of Fortune. You could come up with questions and categories related to Black history and culture, and have teams compete for prizes. This is a fun and interactive way to test your knowledge.
33. Juneteenth Karaoke
Get everyone singing with a Juneteenth karaoke party. You could choose songs by famous Black musicians or even civil rights anthems. This is a great way to appreciate African-American musical traditions and let your voice be heard.
34. Red Food Eating Contests
Pay homage to the color red (which symbolizes resilience and sacrifice in Juneteenth celebrations) by hosting a red food eating contest. You could have competitions for foods like watermelon, strawberries, or even hot sauce. This is a fun and messy way to celebrate the holiday.
Workplace Celebrations
35. Juneteenth Office Potluck/BBQ
Bring everyone together with a Juneteenth office potluck or barbecue. Encourage team members to bring traditional African-American dishes or red-themed foods. Sharing a meal is a great way to bond and celebrate the holiday.
36. Decorate with Juneteenth Colors
Get into the spirit of Juneteenth by decorating your office with the holiday’s traditional colors of red, black, and green. You could hang streamers, balloons, or even create a photo backdrop.
37. Juneteenth Giveaways/Swag bags
Show your appreciation for your team with Juneteenth-themed giveaways or swag bags. You could include items like t-shirts, pins, or even books by Black authors. This is a great way to spread awareness and show your company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
38. Juneteenth Happy Hour
Celebrate the end of the workday with a Juneteenth-themed happy hour. You could serve red drinks like strawberry daiquiris or watermelon margaritas, and provide snacks like barbecue sliders or red velvet cupcakes.
39. Juneteenth Storytelling Night
Host a Juneteenth storytelling night where team members can share their personal experiences, family histories, or even original creative works related to the holiday. This is a powerful way to build empathy, understanding, and connection among colleagues.
40. Juneteenth Karaoke Contest
Take your Juneteenth karaoke to the next level with a full-blown contest. You could have categories like best solo performance, best duet, or even best costume.
41. Juneteenth “Stamped” Greeting Cards
Create a set of Juneteenth-themed greeting cards that team members can send to each other or to clients and partners. You could design them with symbols like the Juneteenth flag or powerful quotes from Black leaders.
42. Juneteenth Office Door/Cubicle Decorating Contest
Challenge your team to decorate their office doors or cubicles with Juneteenth-themed designs. You could have categories like most creative, most informative, or even best use of the color red.
43. Juneteenth Photo Booth
Set up a Juneteenth-themed photo booth where team members can take festive pictures with props, backdrops, and even costumes. You could provide items like red, black, and green feather boas, Juneteenth flags, or even historical costumes.
Support Black Businesses
44. Order from Black-owned Restaurants
One delicious way to support the Black community during Juneteenth is by ordering food from Black-owned restaurants.
You could cater your office celebration with dishes from a local soul food spot or Caribbean eatery, or encourage team members to order their own lunches from Black-owned cafes or food trucks.
45. Hire Black Artists/Performers
Elevate your Juneteenth celebration by hiring Black artists and performers to provide entertainment or lead workshops.
You could book a Black musician to play live music, a Black dancer to teach a class, or even a Black magician to perform mind-bending tricks.
46. Purchase from Black Vendors/Retailers
Show your support for Black-owned businesses by purchasing supplies, decorations, or even gifts for your Juneteenth celebration from Black vendors and retailers.
You could order custom t-shirts from a Black-owned screen printing shop, buy art supplies from a Black-owned craft store, or even purchase books by Black authors from a Black-owned bookshop.
Every purchase helps support and grow Black enterprises.
47. Promote Black Entrepreneurs
Use your platform to promote and amplify Black entrepreneurs in your community and beyond.
You could feature Black-owned businesses in your company newsletter or social media channels, invite Black founders to speak at your events, or even partner with Black-owned companies on collaborative projects.
Helping to spread the word and expand their reach is a powerful way to support Black business owners.
48. Juneteenth Marketplace Fair
Host a Juneteenth marketplace fair where Black-owned businesses can showcase and sell their products and services.
You could invite vendors from a variety of industries, from food and fashion to beauty and home goods, and encourage your team and community to shop and support.
Final Notes
Celebrating Juneteenth at work is a meaningful way to honor the struggle for freedom and equality. By engaging in educational activities, cultural appreciation, volunteering, team building, and supporting Black businesses, companies can create a more inclusive and aware workplace.
However, it’s important to remember that diversity and inclusion efforts shouldn’t be limited to just one day. To truly create lasting change, these initiatives should be woven into the fabric of the company culture year-round.
As you plan your Juneteenth celebration, be sure to respect employees’ boundaries and make participation voluntary. Some may prefer to celebrate privately or not at all.
By making Juneteenth an annual tradition, you can create a space for ongoing learning, growth, and community building. Together, we can work towards a more just and equitable future.
Read More: 24 Unforgettable 4th of July Party Ideas for Work to Strengthen Team Bonds
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