Are you familiar with Juneteenth? Held every year on June 19 – and sometimes called “Freedom Day” or “Emancipation Day” – this holiday honors the U.S. decision to abolish slavery in Texas back in 1865. Many states celebrate this landmark day in African American history. Here in southeast Michigan, in fact, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit celebrates Juneteenth each year, usually with a Saturday festival full of family fun and education. In that spirit, Gimme, Gimme! is commemorating this important event with a photo gallery of kids’ dolls, clothing, games and more that promote equality and inclusion for all.
We All Sing with the Same Voice
A book about children from all over the world helps kids understand that although we look and act differently, we can find a common ground in the song within our hearts. This illustrated book, written by J. Philip Miller and Sheppard M. Greene, is created from a song originally aired on Sesame Street. It’s $6.99 at West Music Company.
Dolls of the World
For all the little girls who idolize Barbie, here’s an educational use for the doll. Teach your daughter about different cultures the easy way with Barbies from all over the world. Their apparel and accessories set them apart from other Barbies! If she needs help choosing one, the dolls’ main website offers a brief rundown of the plastic girls and their countries using an interactive map. Buy one for $24.99 from Mattel’s site (recommended ages 6-plus).
Golden Rule T-shirt
A wearable guide for how to treat others will help keep your teen’s behavior in check. Let them show off how they really feel with this T-shirt that gives examples of one guideline most everyone can agree on: the golden rule. They run $29.95 each at Zazzle.
I Never Forget a Face Matching Game
This unique matching game gives kids a little more to think about while they are playing – each card has a home country to match the face on the front. Becoming accustomed to different cultures at a young age will help your child better understand the world around them. It’s recommended for ages 3-plus. Get one for $14.99 at yoyo.com.
Crayola Multicultural Crayons
An inexpensive solution to those awkward skin-tone issues that come along with any coloring book? Crayola’s multicultural crayons. Now the little ones can create works of art by coloring any way they choose! The cost is $0.98 for a box of eight crayons at OfficeZilla.
Gender Equity Organic Baby Bodysuit
Now even baby can keep up with the times! Make a subtle-yet-bold statement with this organic cotton onesie – and teach the little crawler that gender will never hold him or her back. Available in long sleeve, too; sizes range from 3-6 months to 18-24 months. Runs $20 at CafePress.
The Kids’ Multicultural Craft Book
Let the kids explore artistic norms from exotic places using readily available materials (some you can find around the house). Great for a rainy day – or any day that needs a crafty pick-me-up! Costs $11.07 at Barnes & Noble. Recommended for ages 8 and older.
Rugs for Children
This “welcome” rug has the word written in nine different languages. Ideal for a classroom setting or any playroom floor that sees lots of children! For $40, you can purchase one 33-by-43-inch rug from Learner Supply’s website.
