My First Juneteenth

I was fortunate to be able to attend one of the Juneteenth celebrations in North Minneapolis this past Friday with my two boys. We took in the spoken word, students singing, and individual artists. We noticed the long lines of people needing basic necessities. We appreciated the free children’s books written by black authors and each child got one to take home at their reading level. We opted for a balloon animal but managed to avoid the cotton candy (too sticky in the heat).

Sometimes I get a little ahead of myself. Some of my family members or friends might tell you that I am too quick to make race/racism the reason for everything. Or that I’m overthinking some cultural norms. One example played out right in front of me on Friday in the Cub Foods parking lot.

My 10 year old son, K1, took an interest in some beaded necklaces under one of the tents. I told him we’d need to think about them and walk around a bit before committing to a purchase. My fear was that my son wanted to wear a necklace that would not be appropriate for him to wear. My red haired, fair-skinned boy seemed to be asking to wear a necklace that I assumed to be crafted in an African country and I didn’t want him to use it as a token pieces of jewelry if it had a deeper significance. So, we walked around a little more. While walking, my 7 year old son, K2, tried telling me that the necklaces were “Black Panther” necklaces. I had no idea what he was talking about and assumed he had seen some panther charm mixed among the beads.

And so, after 20 minutes of walking around and checking in with different vendors, we went back to the necklaces that K1 still had his heart set on. I figured I may as well check in with the owner.

“Hi! We love all of your beaded necklaces and my son is particularly interested in one over here. Can I ask you something? What is the significance of these necklaces and where were they made? Is it appropriate for him to wear one? Or would it be better to buy and keep in his room to remember their meaning and today’s experience?”

The man was quick to respond, “Ha ha! These necklaces are for anyone and everyone to wear. They represent Wakanda, you know, from the movie, 'The Black Panther'.”

Wow. Well, I was schooled. My 7 year old knew much more about the meaning behind those necklaces than I did and yet I didn’t take the time to listen to him and consider that he just might know a little something.

In the end, K1 ended up with a new red and black beaded necklace with a silver panther claw in the middle. He even graciously agreed to share it with his little brother.

I take a few different lessons away from my experience at our first Juneteenth celebration and mainly a note to remember to lean in and ask questions and listen to my children. I can learn a lot from simply remembering that I don't know what I don't know and I may often be surprised with who has the answer(s).