Willard Library will again host a  full week of programs in honor of Juneteenth, including an exhibit highlighting the work of Dorothy Martich, a global exploration of headwrapping, a performance by African Masquerade Dancers, and more. 

Tynisha Dungey, director of youth services and community engagement, described the historical significance and modern importance of Juneteenth.  “On June 19, 1865,  Major General Gordon Granger proclaimed slaves in Texas and other states in the southwest were emancipated. This was approximately two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President Abraham Lincoln. We celebrate Juneteenth today because it is a reminder of where we have come, and an inspiration of what we can become and achieve,” she said. 

The week begins on Monday, June 10 in the downtown programming room with a 6:30 p.m. performance from the “African Masquerade Dancers: A Tribute to Juneteenth.” During this family-friendly program, professional dancers will take attendees on an interactive journey to learn more about the history of Juneteenth through song and dance. 

On Tuesday, anthropologist Zarina El-Amin will explore the history and culture of headwrapping, 6 p.m. in the downtown programming room. Adult services librarian Brenna LaForge described the program as “an interactive experience where a team of ‘headwrapologists’ will discuss headwrapping and present live demonstrations. Participants will have the opportunity to try out different styles of headwraps and watch professionals create beautiful works of art on live models.” She continued, “Our presenter Zarinah El-Amin and her team will explore traditions, cultures, and fashion through the art of wrapping. More than that, this will be a celebration of people and expression. Participants will learn about headwrapping, but they may learn a little about themselves, too.”

The library is currently displaying an exhibit, titled “Beautifully Wrapped” on the main floor of the  downtown location. It features beautiful photographs of headwraps from cultures around the world. The display will remain in place until the program on June 11.  

Wednesday morning’s program, “It’s a Juneteenth! Celebration” introduces the story of Juneteenth in an age-appropriate way with a story, treats, songs, and drumming with music educator Miss Rachel Behr, 10 a.m. at the Helen Warner Branch’s Dean O. Barnum Amphitheater. The program is designed for preschool aged children and their families, but all are welcome. 

Later Wednesday evening, celebrate the legacy of Dorothy Martich’s work documenting the extensive history of Black individuals and families in Battle Creek and their contributions to our community at “Our History, Our Future: The African Americans Who Dared to Dream in Battle Creek,” 5 p.m. in the downtown programming room. The exhibit will honor this history as friends and families are invited to to share their stories and memories handed down the generations.

Thursday, June 13 at 6 p.m., those interested in family history and genealogy research will find interest in “Cluster Research: Discovering You’re Related to the Whole Block” with archivist and librarian Jessica Trotter. Researching in and around a system meant to extinguish familial bonds, like the institution of American slavery, can prove difficult. Trotter will share tips, tricks, and examples of how researching “the neighborhood” can provide valuable insights into family history. 

The week closes again this year with a “Juneteenth Lunch and Learn” led by Dr. L.E. Johnson. Attendees will learn about the significance of Juneteenth, which became a federal holiday in 2021. The program will be held at noon in the downtown programming room. Those interested may register here or by calling 269-968-8166 ext. 513. Seating is limited, and lunch will be provided for those who register. 

Stop by the Juneteenth Family Day Celebration at Claude Evans Park on Saturday, June 15 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and say hello to Willard Library staff at the library’s booth. The library will have information about the Summer Reading program and summer library events available.