HAPPY PRIDE MONTH
Making the classroom a more inclusive space: One way that teachers can build inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ students is by stocking their classroom and libraries with book titles that speak to the experiences of members of that group. “Adding books with LGBT characters and themes to classrooms and libraries creates a more inclusive school culture,” says John DePasquale, writing for Scholastic. “Many LGBT youth describe feelings of isolation and adding books to classrooms that reflect their lives and experiences is a step toward breaking this isolation. (For more tips go to: Improving LGBTQ+ Inclusivity in the Classroom: Resources Guide | American University).
June 6th: D-Day
JUNE 14:
JUNE 19TH- Father's Day
JUNE 19TH:
Juneteenth is a holiday celebrated on June 19 to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people in the US. The holiday was first celebrated in Texas, where on that date in 1865, in the aftermath of the Civil War, enslaved people were declared free under the terms of the 1862 Emancipation Proclamation.
Book Suggestions for Juneteenth:
JUNE 20TH: First Day of Summer/Summer Solstice
Importance of Summer Solstice
Solstice originates from the Latin words meaning “sun” and to “stop”. On this day, the sun appears to stop and pause in the sky when it reaches its northernmost point. By celebrating and honoring the solstice, we are reminded just how precious each day and season is. That’s why the longest day and shortest night are celebrated with festivals and rituals and are strongly related to growth, light and fertility.
Native American Culture
The longest day has been noted and celebrated by many different cultures; among the most interesting rituals are those of the Native Americans. Before the early 20th century, many Native American tribes performed ceremonial rituals to celebrate the new season because they believed the sun was a testimony of the Great Spirit.
The Sundance, a Native American festival that was held to celebrate the summer solstice, typically lasted four days and consisted of singing, dancing, drumming, prayer, mediation and skin piercing. The dance had many facets which proved a warrior’s bravery and his ability to survive alone with only what he wears, to withstand dehydration, starvation and pain. It’s now focused more on educating young non-Native Americans about traditional tribal practices that take place during summer solstice.
JUNE BIRTHDAYS
The Perfect Summer Dish
Native American Succotash Recipe
Ingredients
2 cups summer squash, diced
1 yellow onion, diced
3 cups sweet corn, cut off the cob
2 cups cooked shell beans, any kind
3 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp fresh herbs – savory, hyssop, thyme or basil
salt and pepper
Heat the oil in a large skillet over high heat.
Let the oil get hot (not smoking, but starting to ripple, then add the onions and squash.)
Cook over high heat, tossing or gently stirring as needed until the squash and onions start to get some golden color and soften up about 5 minutes.
Add the corn, decrease the heat to medium, and cook about 5 more minutes.
Add the beans and heat through.
Sprinkle with some amounts of fresh herbs, salt, and pepper.
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