The Badge Archive

Holiday – Juneteenth

Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, marks the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Texas finally learned of their freedom—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. It’s a day of reflection, education, and celebration, and scouts can honor it through meaningful activities that promote learning, service, and cultural appreciation.

Juneteenth is a powerful holiday, and navigating it respectfully as a scout leader is key. While the holiday is deeply significant to Black communities, it’s also an important moment in American history that anyone can honor with awareness, education, and respect.

Here’s how to approach Juneteenth in a way that is thoughtful and inclusive:

  • Educate First – Before celebrating, ensure scouts understand the history. Teach them about General Order No. 3, the delayed freedom in Texas, and how Juneteenth became a national holiday.
  • Amplify Black Voices – Invite Black speakers, historians, or community leaders to share their perspectives. If possible, attend local events led by Black organizers to support their celebrations.
  • Celebrate Through Service – Instead of framing it as just a party, engage in meaningful activities, like volunteering, supporting Black-owned businesses, or reading books by Black authors.
  • Focus on Reflection and Progress – Discuss how freedom and equality are still evolving and what scouts can do to support justice and inclusion today.
  • Respect Personal Connections – Acknowledge that some people have direct ancestral ties to Juneteenth, and others honor it as part of American history—both approaches can coexist when done with care.

By educating, listening, and uplifting Black voices, Juneteenth becomes an opportunity for learning and unity rather than an event that feels appropriative.

GSUSA Badges That Tie into Juneteenth

Scouts can earn badges that align with history, leadership, and community engagement, including:

  • Brownie Celebrating Community – Learn about important symbols and traditions in American history.
  • Junior Inside Government – Explore how laws and policies shape communities.
  • Cadette Public Speaker – Practice sharing stories and history with confidence.
  • Senior Truth Seeker – Research historical events and analyze different perspectives.
  • Ambassador Public Policy – Take action on social justice issues and make a difference.
  • Underground Railroad – (Requirements Link, Purchase Link): A Retired Council’s Own available on Create with DI

Fun Patches for Juneteenth

Scouts can earn fun patches while engaging in eco-friendly and conservation-focused activities.

Patch Programs

Possible Fun Patches

Activities to Earn Fun Patches

Scouts of all ages can engage in activities to earn their own fun patch while celebrating:

Elementary Scouts: Learning Through Creativity

  • Juneteenth Art & Symbols – Create artwork featuring red, white, and blue (Juneteenth flag colors) or African American heritage symbols.
  • Storytelling & Role Play – Read books about Juneteenth and act out historical moments to bring the story to life.
  • Music & Dance Celebration – Learn about African American music traditions and try stepping or drumming as a group.
  • Juneteenth Picnic – Prepare traditional foods like watermelon, red velvet cake, or cornbread to celebrate the holiday.
  • Community Service Project – Plant a freedom garden or clean up a local park in honor of Juneteenth.

Teen Scouts: Leadership & Community Engagement

  • Host a Juneteenth Discussion – Lead a troop conversation on freedom, justice, and equality.
  • Public Speaking Challenge – Write and present a speech on why Juneteenth matters today.
  • Support Black-Owned Businesses – Visit and learn about local Black-owned businesses and their impact on the community.
  • Museum or Historical Site Visit – Tour a Black history museum or attend a Juneteenth event in your area.
  • Advocacy & Awareness Campaign – Create social media posts or posters educating others about Juneteenth.

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For More Fun Ideas and Plans

for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Scouts

Join the Girl Scout Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)

This is a supportive Facebook community for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Girl Scout leaders. Whether you’re seeking advice, fresh ideas, or meeting plans, you’re in the right place! Let’s inspire each other, share our experiences, and make every troop meeting a memorable adventure.

for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Scouts

Join the Girl Scout Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)

This is a supportive community for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scout leaders. This group offers solutions to keep older scouts engaged in scouting amidst their busy lives. Share strategies, tackle challenges, and exchange ideas for fun, meaningful activities that resonate with teens and build lasting connections.

Find out how you can support The Badge Archive!

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Tia Kennard