Juneteenth is more than a holiday—it is a moment of reflection, remembrance, and hope. Celebrated every June 19th, Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas finally received word that they were free—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed.
At Make A Way Media, we believe Juneteenth is not just a historical milestone—it’s a call to action. It is a reminder that storytelling matters. That representation matters. And that Black freedom is not just about the past—it’s about the stories we tell today and the futures we dare to imagine for tomorrow.
Make A Way Media Publishes Books About Empathy
Storytelling is essential to building empathy, and it is essential for fostering the remembrance of Juneteenth. This historic day shines a light on the resilience of Black communities, the unfinished work of liberation, and the power of truth-telling.
At Make A Way Media, we pay tribute to this day by publishing books that:
- Center Black children as heroes, dreamers, and leaders
- Teach children about history, justice, and joy
- Offer tools for emotional wellness and self-love
- Empower families to have conversations about freedom, identity, and hope
Our stories reflect the depth of Black culture—not just its pain, but its possibility.
How Make A Way Media Honors the Spirit of Juneteenth
Every book we publish carries the spirit of Juneteenth. Here’s how:
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We Preserve History with Heart
Our books introduce young readers to powerful historical concepts in a way that is accessible and affirming. Whether through stories of overcoming, family traditions, or reflections on justice, we ensure our readers know that Black history is American history.
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We Elevate Black Joy
Juneteenth is a celebration. And our books celebrate Black children—their magic, their minds, and their everyday lives. We believe representation isn’t just about trauma—it’s about triumph, wonder, and love.
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We Support Mental Health and Empowerment
Liberation is not just political—it’s emotional. Many of our books include tools to help children and families talk about big feelings, cope with challenges, and practice what I call “hoping skills”—a practice of resilience and future-building that is especially important for Black communities.
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We Spark Conversations Across Generations
Juneteenth invites families to talk, learn, and remember together. Our books help parents, teachers, and caregivers start those conversations in a safe, inclusive, and developmentally thoughtful way.
Featured Titles That Honor the Juneteenth Spirit
Some of our most beloved titles that reflect the themes of Juneteenth include:
- “In the Nick of Time” Series — Featuring a Black Santa who uplifts communities and teaches compassion, diversity, and hope
- “Kayla: A Modern-Day Princess” Series — Centering a young Black girl finding confidence, kindness, and pride in her identity and in the direction of her dreams
- “This Is the Earth“ — A poetic, inclusive celebration of environmental justice and global belonging
- “If A Caterpillar Can Fly, Why Can’t I?”— A beautiful activity book that empowers all children to dream beyond limits
Each title reclaims the narrative and provides mirrors for Black readers—and windows for others to grow in empathy.
Juneteenth Is a Beginning, Not Just a Date
Juneteenth reminds us that freedom delayed is still freedom worth fighting for. Through storytelling, we pass the torch. We equip the next generation with the truth, the tools, and the hope they need to keep moving forward.
At Make A Way Media, our mission is rooted in this belief:
When children see themselves in stories, they begin to believe in what is possible.
This Juneteenth, we invite you to celebrate with us—not only by remembering history, but by shaping it through the books we choose to read, share, and create.