For the second year, Montclair Public Schools recognizes Juneteenth as an official holiday. All schools and offices will be closed Friday, June 17 commemorating the emancipation of slaves in the United States on June 19, 1865. “We are an inclusive district and we celebrate and respect our diversity and different cultures and welcome opportunities for recognition,” said Superintendent Jonathan Ponds.
Montclair’s Teachers Undoing Racism, Fleet Feet and AAPI Montclair are cosponsoring a variety of weeklong activities for the public.
Montclair High School-Restorative Justice will be holding a an Open House with tours, refreshments and more on Tuesday, June 14, 3:30-5:30 pm.
On Thursday, June 16, Nishuane and Hillside SATPs will be holding a Juneteenth celebration at Nishuane, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. The event includes fun activities for kids, performances, food and more.
Montclair Education Association's 8:46 Project will be holding a free summer book giveaway for K-12 students of all ages on Friday, June 17, in the Nishuane parking lot from 1 to 4 pm. The 8:46 Project event will provide free books that give voice to marginalized experiences that will engage readers of different ages, races, ethnicities, and backgrounds. There will be raffles, snacks, drinks and much more. Questions? Email: [email protected].
The MEA 8:46 Project is a sub-committee of the MEA that empowers teachers, students and staff to engage in anti-racist educational pedagogy and practices within their classrooms and communities at large.
In the community, Watchung Booksellers (54 Fairfield Street, Watchung Plaza, Montclair) will host Alliah Agostini, Juneteenth Storytime on the Green on Friday at 4 pm. With colorful illustrations and a timeline, this introductory history of Juneteenth for kids details the evolution of the holiday commemorating the date the enslaved people of Texas first learned of their freedom. The Juneteenth Story provides an accessible introduction for kids to learn about this important American holiday. Bring a blanket and enjoy this afterschool storytime and activity on the Watchung Plaza Green. Signed books will be available.