In states like Florida, where restrictions on AP African American History, DEI censorship and books bans have caused turmoil, Juneteenth is an opportunity for educator Brian Knowles to explore with his students the “more despondent areas of American history that are often avoided.”

That includes examining the intellectual and cultural foundations of the holiday: the people, places and events that often get overlooked or erased in social studies curriculums, and bringing Juneteenth into the classroom.

Juneteenth, the latest federal holiday in American history, holds special significance for many educators as it was championed by one of their own. Opal Lee, a former teacher — well into her nineties — led the charge for national recognition. While many schools across the country are off on June 19 in observance, the reason why is not as often taught, says Knowles.

Knowles, CEO and founder of the educational consulting firm Teach Heal Build, focuses on creating culturally affirming classrooms and communities. In April, he published the latest installment in the BOLDLY BLACK workbook series “Mathematics and Science in Ancient Africa.” The set was designed for third graders to explore topical principles and practices tied to Black culture — offering lessons they may not encounter in a traditional school setting.

Ahead of this year’s Juneteenth holiday, The 74’s Trinity Alicia spoke with Knowles about what’s shifting in social studies instruction — particularly in Florida, the power of culturally responsive curriculums in today’s political climate and what motivates him in today’s sociopolitical climate.

This interview has been edited for clarity and length.

The 74: This year marks the 160th anniversary of Juneteenth, but it’s only been recognized as a federal holiday since 2021. Why is it so important, from an educator’s perspective, that Juneteenth became a national holiday?

Juneteenth allows both teachers and students to explore some of the deeper, more despondent areas of American history that are often avoided, showing the importance of bringing Juneteenth into the classroom. It helps us step outside traditional narratives and unpack the multiple perspectives and experiences that different people, particularly within the African-American and African diaspora communities, have had throughout American history. In this way, it gives students a chance to better understand the ongoing process of freedom.

Read the full article about teaching about Juneteenth by Trinity Alicia at The 74.