Celebrate Freedom at Cleveland Public Library

Cleveland Public Library is celebrating Juneteenth with a month of cultural education programs to help Clevelanders remember the day and honor their ancestors.

Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration observing the end of slavery in the United States. “June 19 celebrates more than just the freedom of the nation. It marks a new beginning for Black people in America,” said Twyla Turner, Director of Inclusion & Leadership Education at Cleveland Public Library. “Our programming provides a safe and fun space for families to play, learn, discover, and seek understanding about this important day in American history.”

Cleveland Public Library Juneteenth Programs & Events

FREEDOM FEST: We encourage all families to visit the Cleveland Public Library booth at Freedom Fest, city-wide, family-friendly commemoration of Juneteenth, on Saturday, June 18 at noon on Mall C in downtown Cleveland.

LAST FUGITIVE SLAVE – OHIO: Join the Glenville Branch on Friday, June 17 at 2 p.m. to learn about the experiences of African Americans under the institution of slavery in this re-enactment of the true story of Lucy Bagby, a runaway slave in Cleveland.

THE AFRICAN ORIGINS OF SICKLE CELL DISEASE: Author and licensed social worker Judy Jackson Winston and her daughter discuss the many variations of this disease and its generational impact on families of African descent on Saturday, June 18 at 11:30 a.m. at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Branch.

JUNETEENTH JEWELRY: Children can play and learn about Juneteenth by picking up a take-and-make craft kit to create a Juneteenth necklace or bracelet. Craft kits are available at the Addison Branch Tuesday through Saturday, June 15 – 18.

JUNETEENTH JAMBOREE: The Collinwood Branch will host a celebration on Thursday, June 9 and 16 at 3 p.m. to instruct families about the history and importance of Juneteenth.

JUNETEENTH QUILT: Make a paper quilt and learn about the history of Juneteenth at the Hough Branch on Wednesday, June 15 at 4 p.m.

JUNETEENTH TIE-DYE: The Union Branch will create tie-dye shirts for kids and teens in American and pan African colors on Thursday, June 16 at 1 p.m.

CELEBRATE THOSE WHO GIVE BLACK EXHIBIT: Visit the Celebrate Those Who Give Black exhibit in the lobby of the Cleveland Public Library – Louis Stokes Wing. The exhibit honors African Americans in Cleveland and their contributions to the community. It’s open Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

For a complete list of Juneteenth events at Cleveland Public Library or a list of recommended reads, visit cpl.org/Juneteenth.