America250 celebrates Juneteenth to not only recognize the emancipation of enslaved African Americans on June 19, 1865, but to honor the contributions of Black individuals and Black culture to the United States throughout our history.
Juneteenth is yet another moment to further our commitment to elevating diverse stories and histories. From the early days of freedom songs to modern art and entertainment, Black expression has helped us bridge the gap between different cultures, communities, and lived experiences throughout America’s history. Although Juneteenth is a single day of celebration and recognition, it marks a pivotal moment in American history that reminds us of the resilience of its people.
As an ode to the beauty in Black representation and authentic storytelling, America250 has collected a few of our favorite songs, books, movies, and TV shows from Black artists and entertainers whose work captures the spirit of Juneteenth. From Ray Charles’ rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing to Juneteenth-centered episodes on family-friendly shows like The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder or Black-ish, these timeless pieces uniquely present the reality of Black American life in the United States.
Enjoy this curated list of music, literature, and songs to reflect on the impact and legacy of Black culture in America.
LISTEN
Featuring songs from Mahalia Jackson, Ray Charles, Beyonce’ and Kendrick Lamar, Wynton Marsalis, Aretha Franklin, John Legend and many more, this playlist celebrates Black artists from multiple generations who have helped shaped the landscape of music, both in America and worldwide, while using their voice to lift up their communities.
Spotify | Apple | Pandora | Tidal | YouTube Music
READ
- Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free: The True Story of the Grandmother of Juneteenth by Alice Faye Duncan
- Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
- The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett
- Shine Bright: A Very Personal History of Black Women in Pop by Danyel Smith
- The Annotated African American Folktales by Henry Louis, Jr. Gates and Maria Tatar
- This is the Rope by Jacqueline Woodson (children’s book)
- What is Juneteenth? by Kirsti Jewel (children’s book)
- Finding Freedom: Addy Book from American Girl
WATCH
- Miss Juneteenth
- One Night in Miami…
- Daughters of the Dust
- Summer of Soul
- High on the Hog
- The Proud Family Louder and Prouder – Juneteenth (TV-G)
- “Black-ish” – Juneteenth (TV-PG)
- Kevin Hart’s Guide to Black History (TV-PG)
As we work to plan the largest and most inclusive commemoration in our nation’s history, America250 encourages everyone to join us in commemorating Juneteenth by watching, reading, or listening through these curated lists, attending your local Juneteenth events, and supporting Black-owned businesses in your community. Happy Juneteenth!
America’s Field Trip
Engaging students nationwide to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary!
A new contest inviting students in grades 3–12 to share their perspectives on what America means to them — and earn the opportunity to participate in field trip experiences at some of the nation’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks.