Heritage & Cultural Observances

Background

National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15 to recognize the achievements and contributions of Hispanic Americans trailblazers who have inspired generations and enriched our communities. September 15 is a significant date because it marks the independence anniversaries for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua, with Mexico celebrating its independence on September 16 and Chile on September 18. 

Events & Activities

Coming soon!

Reading Lists

Visit the ¡Colorín Colorado! website for booklists, activities and resources to explore year round.

Early Readers (Grades K-2)

• “Anita and the Dragons” by Hannah Carmona, illustrated by Anna Cunha
• “Areli is a Dreamer” by Areli Morales, illustrated by Luisa Aribe
• “The Cot in the Living Room” by Hilda Eunice Burgos, illustrated by Gaby D'Alessandro
• “The Coquíes Still Sing: A Story of Home, Hope, and Rebuilding” by Karina Nicole Gonzalez, illustrated by Krystal Quiles
• “Dancing Hands: How Teresa Carreño Played the Piano for President Lincoln” by Margarita Engle, illustrated by Rafael López
• “Gustavo, the Shy Ghost” by Flavia Z. Drago
• “How to Hear the Universe: Gaby González and the Search for Einstein's Ripples in Space-Time” by Patricia Valdez, illustrated by Sara Palacios
• “If Your Babysitter is a Bruja” by Ana Siqueira, illustrated by Irena Freitas
• “Mango, Abuela, and Me” by Meg Medina, illustrated by Angela Dominguez
• “Mario and the Hole in the Sky: How a Chemist Saved Our Planet” by Elizabeth Rusch, illustrated by Teresa Martínez
• “Pablo Neruda: Poet of the People” by Monica Brown, illustrated by Julie Paschkis
• “Paletero Man” by Lucky Diaz, illustrated by Micah Player
• “Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré” by Anika Aldamuy Denise, illustrated by Paola Escobar
• “Roberto Clemente: Pride of the Pittsburgh Pirates” by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Raúl Colón
• “Turning Pages: My Life Story” by Sonia Sotomayor, illustrated by Lulu Delacre

Elementary (Grades 3–5)

• “Cuba in My Pocket” by Adrianna Cuevas
• “Efrén Divided” by Ernesto Cisneros
• “Frizzy” by Claribel A. Ortega
• “Ghost Squad” by Claribel A. Ortega
• “I Lived on Butterfly Hill” by Marjorie Agosin, illustrated by Jee White
• “Latinitas: Celebrating 40 Big Dreamers” by Juliet Menendez
• “Lety Out Loud” by Angela Cervantes
• “Lupe Wong Won't Dance” by Donna Barba Higuera
• “Manu” by Kelly Fernández
• “The Midnight War of Mateo Martinez” by Robin Yardi
• “Paola Santiago and the River of Tears” by Tehlor Kay Mejia
• “Separate is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and Her Family's Fight for Desegregation” by Duncan Tonatiuh
• “The Total Eclipse of Nestor Lopez” by Adrianna Cuevas
• “Silver Meadows Summer” by Emma Otheguy

Middle (Grades 6–8)

• “Before We Were Free” by Julia Alvarez
• “The Bluest Sky” by Christina Diaz Gonzalez
• “Esperanza Rising” by Pam Muñoz Ryan
• “The House on Mango Street” by Sandra Cisneros
• “The Insiders” by Mark Oshiro
• “Isla to Island” by Alexis Castellanos
• “Iveliz Explains It All” by Andrea Beatriz Arango
• “The Last Cuentista” by Donna Barba Higuera
• “Marcus Vega Doesn’t Speak Spanish” by Pablo Cartaya
• “Miss Quinces” by Kat Fajardo
• “The Moon Within” by Aida Salazar
• “The Other Half of Happy” by Rebecca Balcárcel
• “Tight” by Torrey Maldonado
• “Tumble” by Celia C. Pérez
• “The Water Bears” by Kim Baker

High (Grades 9–12)

• “Breathe and Count Back from Ten” by Natalia Sylvester
• “Cemetery Boys” by Aiden Thomas
• “Clap When You Land” by Elizabeth Acevedo
• “The Distance Between Us” by Reyna Grande
• “Don't Ask Me Where I'm From” by Jennifer De Leon
• “Furia” by Yamile Saied Mendez
• “The Grief Keeper” by Alexandra Villasante
• “Keeper” by Mal Peet
• “Lobizona” by Romina Garber
• “Never Look Back” by Lilliam Rivera
• “Reclaim the Stars: 17 Tales Across Realms and Space” edited by Zoraida Córdova
• “When We Make It” by Elisabet Velasquez
• “Where I Belong” by Marcia Argueta Mickelson
• “Wild Tongues Can't Be Tamed: 15 Voices from the Latinx Diaspora” edited by Saraciea J. Fennell
• “Woven in Moonlight” by Isabel Ibañez

Resources

• New! Secondary Latine History in Oregon Lesson Plans
• Elementary Latino and Native History Lesson Plans: Analyzing Primary Sources
• Latinx Studies: Library of Congress Resources
• Mexican American Migrations and Communities
• Spanish-language Online Learning Resources
• ¡Presente!: A Latino History of the United States
• Resources Recommended by the National Museum of the American Latino
• EDSITEment Learning Lab Collection: American Immigrant Experiences
• Notable Achievements by Hispanic Americans
• When Hispanic Heritage Month Is Celebrated

Background

Native American Heritage Month, observed each November, honors the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Native peoples across the United States. It began as American Indian Day in the early 1900s, thanks to advocates like Dr. Arthur C. Parker, and was formally recognized as a month-long celebration by Congress in 1990.

Events & Activities

• Every Child Matters (Orange shirt day) – Annually on June 30
  • “Every Child Matters” originated in Canada to honor Indigenous children who were taken to residential schools and never returned home. The phrase gained national recognition after the discovery of unmarked graves in 2021. It calls for truth, remembrance, and reconciliation, emphasizing the value and dignity of every Indigenous child.
• Rock Your Mocs
  • Rock Your Mocs is a worldwide movement started in 2011 by Jessica “Jaylyn” Atsye of Laguna Pueblo. Celebrated each November, it encourages Indigenous peoples to wear moccasins to honor their culture, traditions, and ancestors, promoting unity, pride, and visibility of Native identity within communities and across the world.
• The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians Restoration Celebration – Annually in November
  • The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians Restoration Celebration honors the 1977 reinstatement of the Tribe’s federal recognition after termination in 1954. Held each November, it celebrates sovereignty, resilience, and cultural revitalization, recognizing the Siletz people’s enduring strength, unity, and commitment to preserving their traditions and community for future generations.
• Grand Ronde Restoration Celebration – Annually in November 
  • The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Restoration Celebration honors the 1983 federal restoration of the Tribe’s sovereignty, ending nearly 30 years of termination. Celebrated each November, it recognizes resilience, cultural renewal, and the ongoing strength of the Grand Ronde people in preserving their heritage, governance, and connection to ancestral lands.
• The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde Powwows
  • The Veterans Powwow – Held in July
  • The Annual Contest Powwow at the Uyxat Powwow Grounds near Grand Ronde – Held in August

Reading Lists

Early Readers (Grades K-2)

• "We Are Water Protectors" by Carole Lindstrom – A lyrical story about a young Dakota girl who becomes a protector of the water.
• "My Heart Fills with Happiness" by Monique Gray Smith – A celebration of simple joys and things that bring happiness, told in a simple and heartwarming way.
• "Jingle Dancer" by Cynthia Leitich Smith – A young Muscogee girl prepares for a powwow, learning about the importance of her family and community.
• "Indian Shoes" by Cynthia Leitich Smith – A story about a young boy who feels out of place until he learns about his family's history and cultural heritage.
• "Thunder Boy Jr." by Sherman Alexie – A story about a boy who is named after his father and looks for his own identity while on a quest to find a new name.
• "How Raven Got His Crooked Nose" by Joseph Bruchac – A humorous tale that explains how Raven's nose got crooked.
• "Keepunumuk: Weeâchumun's Thanksgiving Story" by Danielle Black and Ian M. Coller – A story of friendship between Wampanoag children and the early settlers during the first Thanksgiving. 
• "Reservation Life Today" by Jim Kristofic – An exploration of life on reservations in the modern era.

Elementary & Middle (Grades 3-8)

• "The Birchbark House" by Louise Erdrich – A historical novel set in the 1840s on the Ojibwe reservation, following the life of a young girl named Omakayas.
• "Fatty Legs" by Christy Jordan-Fenton and Margaret-Olemaun Pokiak-Fenton – A memoir about a young Inupialuk girl's experience at a residential school.
• "Indian No More" by Charlene Willing Givens – A story about a girl whose family is erased from the federal rolls in the 1950s.
• "In the Footsteps of Crazy Horse" by Joseph Marshall III – A story about a young Lakota boy who goes on a vision quest to learn about his heritage and the legacy of Crazy Horse.
• "Healer of the Water Monster" by Brian Young – A modern story about a young Navajo boy who must find his inner strength to help his family.
• "The Star That Always Stays" by Anna Rose Johnson – A story about two sisters in the 19th century who are sent to a boarding school where they must learn to navigate two different cultures. 
• "We Still Belong" by Christine Day – A contemporary story about a young girl navigating her identity and the importance of her heritage. 

Graphic Novels

• "Eagle Drums" by Nasugraq Rainey Hopson – A collection of stories about a young Yup'ik girl and her community.
• "Indigenous Ingenuity: A Celebration of Traditional North American Knowledge" by Deirdre Havrelock – Explores the traditional knowledge and innovations of Indigenous peoples.
• "The American Indian Movement" by Heather Bruegl – A historical overview of a pivotal movement in Native American history.
• "Trickster: Native American Tales" A collection of traditional trickster stories told in a graphic novel format. 
• "I Can Make This Promise" by Christine Day – A historical fiction novel where a young Native American girl uncovers her family's secrets from the past.

Short Stories

• "Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story" by Kevin Noble Maillard – A picture book that celebrates the significance of fry bread and Native American family life.
• "Ancestor Approved" by Cynthia Leitich Smith – A collection of short stories and poems from various Indigenous authors exploring themes of family, identity, and belonging.
• "I Can Make This Promise" by Christine Day – A historical fiction novel where a young Native American girl uncovers her family's secrets from the past.
• "Apple: Skin" to the Core by Eric Gansworth
• "Everything You Wanted to Know About Indians but Were Afraid to Ask" by Anton Treuer 

Fiction

• "Firekeeper's Daughter" by Angeline Boulley – A young adult novel about a teen who goes undercover to expose a conspiracy within her community.
• "Elatsoe" by Darcie Little Badger – A fantasy novel about a Lipan Apache girl who can raise ghosts and investigates her great-grandmother's murder.
• "Hearts Unbroken" by Cynthia Leitich Smith – A story of a young Muscogee Creek girl navigating life, relationships, and identity in high school. 
• "The Marrow Thieves" by Cherie Dimaline
• "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie
• "A Snake Falls to Earth" by Darcie Little Badger
• "The Barren Grounds" by David A. Robertson
• "Walking in Two Worlds" by Wab Kinew
• "Hearts Unbroken" by Cynthia Leitich Smith

Resources

• National Museum of the American Indian
• The Confluence Project
• Minnesota Historical Society
• High Desert Museum
• Museum of Natural and Cultural History

Background

Each year, February is recognized as Black History Month by the National Library of Congress and is honored throughout our Salem-Keizer Community.

Black history month is a celebration of triumphs, successes and progress. It honors the end of chattel slavery, the dismantling of Jim and Jane Crow segregation in the South and the hard-fought victories that opened doors to greater political representation at all levels of government. 

It recognizes the desegregation of educational institutions, the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and milestones like the opening of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History in Washington, D.C.

It also celebrates the growing and diverse representation of Black experiences in the media, reflecting the resilience, creativity and enduring impact of Black Americans throughout history.

Events & Activities

Echoes of Excellence. Experience the evolution of Black music as a living timeline of resilience, brilliance and community. This event is hosted by our Salem-Keizer Black Student Unions.

• Location: McKay High School Auditorium
• Date: February 20, 2026
• Time: 6 p.m.

Reading Lists

Early Readers (Grades K-2)

• "I Am Every Good Thing" by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Gordon C. James
• "Hair Love" by Matthew A. Cherry, illustrated by Vashti Harrison
• "The King of Kindergarten" by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton
• "Me & Mama" by Cozbi A. Cabrera
• "The Day You Begin" by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López
• "Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre" by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Floyd Cooper
• "We March" by Shane W. Evans
• "Change Sings: A Children's Anthem" by Amanda Gorman, illustrated by Loren Long
• "The Year We Learned to Fly" by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López
• "The Last Stand" by Antwan Eady, illustrated by Jarrett and Jerome Pumphrey
• "Ode to Grapefruit: How James Earl Jones Found His Voice" by Kari Lavelle, illustrated by Bryan Collier

Elementary (Grades 3-5)

These books explore historical events, personal narratives, and themes of identity and community.

• "Hands" by Torrey Maldonado
• "Becoming Muhammad Ali" by James Patterson and Kwame Alexander
• "Track" series by Jason Reynolds
• "The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963" by Christopher Paul Curtis
• "Clean Getaway" by Nic Stone
• "Stella by Starlight" by Sharon M. Draper
• "One Crazy Summer" by Rita Williams-Garcia
• "Treasure Island: Runaway Gold" by Jewell Parker Rhodes
• "The Season of Styx Malone" by Kekla Magoon
• "The Parker Inheritance" by Varian Johnson
• "Playing the Cards You're Dealt" by Varian Johnson
• "Twins: A Graphic Novel" by Varian Johnson
• "Becoming Muhammad Ali" by James Patterson and Kwame Alexander
• "Hidden Figures (Adapted for Young Readers)" by Margot Lee Shetterly
• "The Undefeated" by Kwame Alexander
• "Freewater" by Amina Luqman-Dawson
• "Evicted!: The Struggle for the Right to Vote" by Alice Faye Duncan, illustrated by Charly Palmer
• "Barracoon: Adapted for Young Readers" by Zora Neale Hurston and Ibram X. Kendi, adapted by Jazzmen Lee-Johnson

Middle (Grades 6-8)

This category features selections addressing complex social issues, history, and personal growth. 

• "March" graphic novel series by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin and Nate Powell
• "Treasure Island: Runaway Gold" by Jewell Parker Rhodes
• "Black Boy Joy" edited by Kwame Mbalia
• "Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Manifestor Prophecy" by Angie Thomas
• "Take Back the Block" by Chrystal D. Giles
• "Not an Easy Win" by Chrystal D. Giles
• "The Parker Inheritance" by Varian Johnson
• "Playing the Cards You're Dealt" by Varian Johnson
• "Tristan Strong" series by Kwame Mbalia
• "Brown Girl Dreaming" by Jacqueline Woodson
• "Lifting as We Climb: Black Women's Battle for the Ballot Box" by Evette Dionne
• "Ghost Boys" by Jewell Parker Rhodes
• "Genesis Begins Again" by Alicia D. Williams
• "Revolution in Our Time: The Black Panther Party's Promise to the People" by Kekla Magoon
• "All the Blues in the Sky" by Renée Watson
• "March Forward, Girl: From Young Warrior to Little Rock Nine" by Melba Pattillo Beals

High (Grades 9-12)

These books explore mature themes, historical analysis, and powerful narratives.

• "Black Girl You Are Atlas" by Renée Watson
• "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas
• "All American Boys" by Jason Reynolds
• "Long Way Down" by Jason Reynolds
• "The Nickel Boys" by Colson Whitehead
• "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou
• "This Is My America" by Kimberly Johnson
• "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" as told to Alex Haley
• "Their Eyes Were Watching God" by Zora Neale Hurston
• "Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You (A Remix)" by Ibram X. Kendi and Jason Reynolds
• "Beloved" by Toni Morrison
• "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson

Resources

• Civil Rights Act of 1964
• National Museum of African American History
• Jim Crow Segregation Laws
• Black Americans in Congress
• Ruby Bridges’ Impact on Desegregation
• Slavery in America

Background

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is recognized in March each year to increase awareness and education about the needs of Americans with disabilities. First recognized in 1987 by President Reagan, the month serves to encourage greater inclusion and support opportunities for individuals with disabilities to thrive.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines developmental disabilities as impairments in physical, learning, language, or behavior, including (but not limited to):

• Autism spectrum disorders
• Cerebral palsy
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
• Learning or intellectual disabilities
• Hearing loss
• Vision impairment
• Other developmental delays

We are dedicated to providing every student with safe, welcoming, and effective support that contributes to stronger communities and lifelong success. One program we’re especially proud of is our Unified Program, which strengthens connections in our secondary schools and highlights how students with and without disabilities enrich school experiences together.

Events & Activities

Coming soon!

Reading Lists

Early Readers (Grades K–2)

• “All the Way to the Top” by Annette Bay Pimentel, illustrated by Jennifer Keelan-Chaffins
• “The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin” by Julia Finley Mosca, illustrated by Daniel Rieley
• “I Talk Like a River” by Jordan Scott, illustrated by Sydney Smith
• “I Will Dance” by Nancy Bo Flood, illustrated by Julianna Swaney
• “Just Ask! Be Different, Be Brave, Be You” by Sonia Sotomayor, illustrated by Rafael López
• “Listen: How Evelyn Glennie, a Deaf Girl, Changed Percussion” by Shannon Stocker, illustrated by Devon Holzwarth
• “Six Dots: A Story of Young Louis Braille” by Jen Bryant, illustrated by Boris Kulikov
• “Unbound: The Life and Art of Judith Scott” by Joyce Scott, with Brie Spangler and Melissa Sweet, illustrated by Melissa Sweet
• “A Walk in the Words” by Hudson Talbott
• “We Want to Go to School! The Fight for Disability Rights” by Maryann Cocca-Leffler and Janine Leffler

Elementary (Grades 3–5)

• “Anybody Here Seen Frenchie?” by Leslie Connor
• “A Boy Called Bat” by Elana K. Arnold, illustrated by Charles Santoso
• “The Chance to Fly” by Ali Stroker and Stacy Davidowitz
• “El Deafo” by Cece Bell
• “Get a Grip, Vivy Cohen” by Sarah Kapit
• “I Am Not a Label: 34 Disabled Artists, Thinkers, Athletes, and Activists from Past and Present” by Cerrie Burnell, illustrated by Lauren Mark Baldo
• “A Kind of Spark” by Elle McNicoll
• “Out of My Mind” by Sharon M. Draper
• “Welcome Back, Maple Mehta-Cohen” by Kate McGovern
• “What Stars Are Made Of” by Sarah Allen

Middle (Grades 6–8)

• “Fish in a Tree” by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
• “Forget Me Not” by Ellie Terry
• “Hummingbird” by Natalie Lloyd
• “Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus” by Dusti Bowling
• “It’s All or Nothing, Vale” by Andrea Beatriz Arango
• “May B.” by Caroline Starr Rose
• “Roll With It” by Jamie Sumner
• “Show Me a Sign” by Ann Clare LeZotte
• “Song for a Whale” by Lynne Kelly
• “Tornado Brain” by Cat Patrick

High (Grades 9–12)

• “Accidents of Nature” by Harriet McBryde Johnson
• “The Degenerates” by J. Albert Mann
• “Disability Visibility (Adapted for Young Adults)” edited by Alice Wong
• “How We Roll” by Natasha Friend
• “Give Me a Sign” by Anna Sortino
• “Not If I See You First” by Eric Lindstrom
• “The Silence Between Us” by Alison Gervais
• “The Theft of Sunlight” by Intisar Khanani
• “Unbroken: 13 Stories Starring Disabled Teens” edited by Marieke Nijkamp
• “The Words in My Hands” by Asphyxia

Resources

• Check out our Unified Programs on Facebook!
• Learn more about Salem-Keizer’s Special Education services
• PBS - The Gang of 19 ADA Movement

Background

Each April, we proudly recognize Arab American Heritage Month — a time to honor the rich history, vibrant culture and meaningful contributions of Arab Americans across the United States. Oregon began officially recognizing Arab American Heritage Month when Governor Kate Brown signed it into law in 2021, making Oregon the second state to do so. 

Arab Americans have a long and diverse history in the United States, with immigration waves dating back to the late 19th century. Many early Arab immigrants arrived seeking economic opportunity, education or refuge, and they have since become integral to the fabric of American life. Today, Arab Americans represent a wide range of nationalities, faiths and cultural traditions — united by shared roots and a deep commitment to community.

The Arab world includes people from 22 countries. These countries are: Algeria, Bahrain, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

People in these countries have many different ethnicities, religions, and political beliefs. But they are connected by a shared language and culture.

Events & Activities

• Experience the rich flavors of Arab cuisine at these local restaurants:
  • Damascus Kitchen: 440 State St, Salem, OR 97301
  • Dukano Essentials (HALAL): 4940 River Rd N, Keizer, OR 97303
  • Al Aqsa: 1326 State St, Salem, OR 97301
• Ettihad Cultural Festival – Each year, Oregon State University’s Ettihad Cultural Center hosts a vibrant festival showcasing cultures from more than 15 countries. The event features Arab arts, cuisine, and performances among its many celebrations. Explore one of past celebrations.

Reading Lists

Consider reading a book or poem by writers and artists who have made profound impacts on literature and journalism, such as:

• Etel Adnan – Poet, essayist, and visual artist whose work blends themes of exile, memory and landscape.
• Naomi Shihab Nye – Beloved poet and author whose writing centers on peace, heritage and everyday life.
• Anthony Shadid – Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author known for his thoughtful reporting from the Middle East.
• Huda Fahmy – Contemporary Arab American graphic novelist celebrated for her humorous and relatable reflections on identity and daily life.

Resources

• TeachMideast Resource Guide
• Virtual Tour: Arab American National Museum
• Video Library: Arab American History
• Learn more about Arab changemakers on the Facing History website

Background

The celebration of Pride Month began in response to the Stonewall Uprising in June 1969 and the challenges and triumphs that followed. It’s celebrated annually in recognition of the LGBTQ2SIA+ community.

Events & Activities

• DAISY Open House – an event for students, families and allies from the LGBTQ2SIA+ community where attendees access resources, understand how to support others or seek support for themselves and more.
• Green Carnation Graduation Celebration – The district hosts a special graduation celebration, the Green Carnation Celebration, to honor students and families who identify as LGBTQ2SIA+. 
• Pride Month Field Day - A time for families to come together and celebrate LGBTQ2SIA+ youth, often featuring a variety of activity stations, a sensory/reading room and a meal for families.

Reading Lists

Elementary (Grades K-5)

• "My Shadow Is Pink" by Scott Stuart
• "My Shadow Is Purple" by Scott Stuart
• "My Shadow Is Blue" by Scott Stuart
• “Pringle & Finn” by Paul Castle

Middle (Grades 6-8)

• "The Witch Boy" by Molly Knox Ostertag
• "Obie Is Man Enough" by Schuyler Bailar
• "Second Dad Summer" by Benjamin Klas
• "The Real Riley Mayes" by Rachel Elliott
• "Better Nate Than Ever" by Tim Federle
• "Ashes to Asheville" by Sarah Dooley
• "Drama" by Raina Telgemeier
• "Drum Roll, Please" by Lisa Jenn Bigelow
• "Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World" by Ashley Herring Blake
•  "Melissa" (Previously published as "George") by Alex Gino
• "Gracefully Grayson" by Ami Polonsky
• "The Best Man" by Richard Peck
• "The Marvels" by Brian Selznick
• "Beetle & the Hollowbones" by Aliza Layne
• "King of the Dragonflies" by Kacen Callender
• "The List of Things That Will Not Change" by Rebecca Stead
• "Lumberjanes" (series, various authors)
• "The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise" by Dan Gemeinhart

High (Grades 9-12)

• "The Miseducation of Cameron Post" by Emily M. Danforth
• "Six of Crows" by Leigh Bardugo
• "The Song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller
• "Heartstopper" (series) by Alice Oseman
• "Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe" by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
• "Boy Meets Boy" by David Levithan
• "The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue" by Mackenzi Lee
• "Tash Hearts Tolstoy" by Kathryn Ormsbee
• "Let’s Talk About Love" by Claire Kann
• "Meet Cute Diary" by Emery Lee
• "Last Night at the Telegraph Club" by Malinda Lo
• "Darius the Great Is Not Okay" by Adib Khorram
• "Leah on the Offbeat" by Becky Albertalli
• "Elatsoe" by Darcie Little Badger
• "War Girls" by Tochi Onyebuchi

Resources

• Stonewall Uprising of 1969
• About | Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Pride Month | Library of Congress
• Salem Capital Pride
• Rainbow Youth

Background

Juneteenth—also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day—is the oldest known celebration of the end of slavery in the United States. It marks June 19, 1865, when Union troops led by General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, announcing that all enslaved people were free. This moment came more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation and signaled the first real enforcement of freedom for the 250,000 enslaved people in Texas.

Though the 13th Amendment would not be ratified until later that year, Juneteenth represents the day when the promise of emancipation finally reached enslaved people in Texas. Early celebrations centered on music, food, storytelling and civic engagement and often served as acts of resistance in communities where people still strongly opposed emancipation. As Black families moved throughout the country during the Great Migration, Juneteenth traditions spread and grew into a national observance.

Recognized as a federal holiday since 2021, Juneteenth is both a celebration and a reflection—honoring Black resilience and deepening our understanding of American history.

Events & Activities

Coming soon for 2026!

Reading Lists

Early Readers (Grades K-2)

• “All Different Now: Juneteenth, the First Day of Freedom” by Angela Johnson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis
• “A Flag for Juneteenth” by Kim Taylor
• “Juneteenth for Mazie” by Floyd Cooper
• “Juneteenth Jamboree” by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Yvonne Buchanan
• “The Night Before Freedom: A Juneteenth Story” by Glenda Armand, illustrated by Corey Barksdale

Elementary (Grades 3-5)

• “Come Juneteenth” by Ann Rinaldi
• “Heart and Soul” by Kadir Nelson
• “Juneteenth” by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson and Drew Nelson, illustrated by Mark Schroder
• “Opal Lee and What it Means to Be Free: The True Story of the Grandmother of Juneteenth” by Alice Faye Duncan, illustrated by Keturah A. Bobo
• “The Juneteenth Cookbook: Recipes and Activities for Kids and Families to Celebrate” by Alliah L. Agostini with Taffy Elrod, illustrated by Sawyer Cloud

Middle (Grades 6-8)

• “Dark Sky Rising: Reconstruction and the Dawn of Jim Crow” by Henry Louis Gates, Jr. with Tonya Bolden
• “Freedom Over Me” by Ashley Bryan
• “Hidden Black History: From Juneteenth to Redlining” by Amanda Jackson Green
• “Stamped (For Kids)” by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi
• “The Story of Juneteenth: An Interactive History Adventure” by Steven Otfinoski

High (Grades 9-12)

• “On Juneteenth” by Annette Gordon-Reed
• “Juneteenth: The Story Behind the Celebration” by Edward T. Cotham Jr.
• “Dark Sky Rising: Reconstruction and the Dawn of Jim Crow” by Henry Louis Gates, Jr. with Tonya Bolden
• “First Freedom: The Story of Opal Lee and Juneteenth” (a graphic novel) by Angélique Roché

Resources

• PBS - Juneteenth Jamboree
• The Root - This Is Why Juneteenth Is Important for America
• Library of Congress: Today in History - Juneteenth