Juneteenth In Charlotte: Children's Book Giveaway At Gantt Center

CHARLOTTE, NC — Little readers will have an opportunity to expand their home libraries as they learn about Black leaders this weekend. The Harvey B Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture and the T-Mobile Foundation are giving away 250 free children's books celebrating Black leaders Saturday, June 19.

Juneteenth, held annually on June 19, celebrates the end of slavery in the United States and the date many slaves in Texas finally found out they were free.

SEE ALSO: What Is Juneteenth? 5 Things To Know About The Holiday That Marks The End Of Slavery

Saturday's Juneteenth book event is one of 14 organized around the nation by the T-Mobile Foundation, that expects to give away 7,500 books to children this year.

The titles that will be offered in Charlotte include:

• Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History by Vashti Harrison (recommended for ages: baby – 9 years)
• Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison (recommended for ages: baby – 9 years)
• Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Ibram X. Kendi (recommended for ages: 6-10 years)

SEE ALSO: Biden Signs Bill Making Juneteenth A National Holiday: Replay

"Representation matters. Studies show that children’s early experiences shape what they imagine to be possible in life. T-Mobile and the T-Mobile Foundation are committed to celebrating and recognizing the stories of African Americans through representation, and hope to inspire the next generation of history makers with stories of leaders who look like them," the organization said in a statement.

The book event is free and open to the public. Books will be distributed on a first-come, first serve basis while supplies last, organizers said.

The Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture is located at 551 S Tryon Street in Charlotte.

SEE ALSO:

• Juneteenth 2021: How Charlotte Metro Marks The End Of Slavery
• Latta Plantation Faces Backlash For 'Racist' Juneteenth Event
• Huntersville's Latta Plantation Funding On Hold Amid Controversy