What is the story of Juneteenth? Why do we celebrate this newly designated federal holiday, and how is it connected to freedom, one of the most cherished American ideals?

You’re invited to explore the history of Juneteenth with a live stream of “Juneteenth: Exploring Freedom’s Stories” from Annenberg Classroom of the Annenberg Public Policy Center, University of Pennsylvania. The film illustrates how freedom and citizenship were intertwined in Juneteenth and how 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments to the Constitution expanded the rights of all American citizens.

An engaging panel discussion after the film screening will provide insights into the historical context, cultural significance, and ongoing relevance of Juneteenth to all Americans. The panel includes a diverse group of individuals from American history experts to those passionate about learning more about Juneteenth:

Dr. Justin Schwartz, Executive Vice President and Provost, Penn State
Dr. Diana Ramey Berry, Michael Douglas Dean of Humanities and Fine Arts, UC Santa Barbara
Dr. Cathleen D. Cahill, George and Ann Richards Civil War Era Center, Walter L. Ferree and Helen P. Ferree Professor in Middle-American History, Penn State
Dr. Eric Foner, DeWitt Clinton Professor Emeritus of History, Columbia University