Healing and Freedom: Celebrating Juneteenth Through Mental Wellness

Written by Re'Shae Green

This week, we honor Juneteenth—a powerful reminder of freedom, strength, and the continued journey toward healing and justice.

At Emmel Zealous, we believe that freedom isn’t just about the past. It’s also about the present—including the freedom to feel, to rest, and to heal. That’s why this Juneteenth, we’re highlighting how mental health and emotional wellness are part of the legacy of liberation.

Why Mental Health Matters This Juneteenth

Juneteenth celebrates the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Texas were finally informed of their freedom—two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. While it marked a legal turning point, emotional healing and generational trauma from slavery, racism, and inequality are still felt today.

Our mental health matters—especially for Black families, children, and communities still carrying the weight of being "strong" for too long.

3 Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth with a Mental Health Focus

🧠 1. Talk About Emotions OpenlyUse age-appropriate language to talk with children about big feelings—like fear, pride, sadness, and joy. Let them know it’s okay to feel all of these, especially when learning about hard parts of history.

💬 2. Reflect and RestJuneteenth is a time for celebration and restoration. Take moments this week to pause, breathe, and reflect. Whether it’s a family walk, journaling, or listening to music that lifts your spirit—give yourself permission to rest.

🌱 3. Honor Black JoyMental wellness includes joy. Dance. Laugh. Celebrate stories of resilience. Read books by Black authors. Watch inspiring films. Uplift the legacy of those who fought for freedom by embracing the joy they dreamed we’d live out loud.

This Juneteenth, Let’s Teach Our Kids That Freedom Includes the Mind and Heart.

Healing is a form of resistance. Joy is a form of protest. And nurturing our mental health is how we carry the legacy of Juneteenth forward for future generations.

Wishing your family peace, rest, and joy this week.