Kamlager-Dove Celebrates Juneteenth with Black History Book Reading
LOS ANGELES, CA – Yesterday, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) hosted a banned and challenged book reading at the Julian Dixon Library in Culver City to celebrate Juneteenth and recognize the importance of learning from our shared history. The family-friendly program featured readings from the books A Flag for Juneteenth, Juneteenth for Maize, and They Built Me for Freedom and an art activity designed to inspire and uplift our community. The congresswoman was joined by Los Angeles County Library Director Skye Patrick and Culver City School Board Member Triston Ezidore.
“Juneteenth is not only a time of celebration but also a time for reflection and education,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “As Republican extremists across the country work to ban diverse books and censor representative curriculums, it is more important than ever to teach our children our shared history, including Black history. We must empower children of diverse backgrounds by providing them opportunities to learn about and take pride in their own cultures. That is how we build a more loving, caring, and respectful society, where all children are confident in their own identities and appreciate those of their peers.”
“We are excited to partner with Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove for this meaningful Juneteenth celebration," said Los Angeles County Library Director Skye Patrick. "This event is a wonderful opportunity for families to come together, learn, and create, all while honoring a day that signifies freedom and resilience. We hope that through engaging stories and creative activities, we can inspire a deeper connection to our community and its rich history.”
“It’s an honor to be a part of this Juneteenth event, especially here at the county library adjacent to one of our schools. At a time when politicians across the country are attempting to restrict children from learning about our shared American history, events like these are crucial. Promoting literacy from a young age is vital, and educating our future generations about the struggles and triumphs of Black Americans fosters empathy, understanding, and unity. This celebration not only honors our past but also inspires hope for a more inclusive and equitable future," said Culver City School Board Member Triston Ezidore.
On Tuesday, ahead of Juneteenth, Congresswomen Kamlager-Dove introduced a resolution to honor, preserve, and ensure investment in former Freedmen’s Settlements—communities established by freed enslaved Americans following the abolition of slavery. Over 1,200 Freedmen’s Settlements and Black Towns were established throughout the South and across the nation before and after emancipation to create safer, self-sustaining, and thriving communities away from racial violence and economic discrimination.
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