Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.
– Martin Luther King Jr.

With Juneteenth just around the corner, ECE programs are planning for how to mark the day. The National Association for the Education of Young Children writes:

“For our early childhood education community, Juneteenth offers a beautiful opportunity to engage families and children in developmentally appropriate ways. We can share stories, histories, and the journeys that have culminated in these jubilant celebrations of freedom.”

Considering how to talk about celebrations of any sort in ECE programs brings up many questions. Nadia Jaboneta, in her inspiring book, You Can’t Celebrate That!, helps early childhood administrators and educators think deeply about how to partner with families to explore religious celebrations and racial identity in supportive and inclusive ways. Her personal story illustrates how beneficial it can be to discuss these ideas together as a loving community.