National Freedom Day – A Day to Celebrate America!
Each year on February 1, Americans celebrate a little-known but truly inspirational observance……National Freedom Day. On this day in 1865, President Abraham Lincoln signed into effect what would later become the 13th Amendment to the Constitution.
The 13th Amendment to the Constitution was particularly important, because it was the amendment that outlawed slavery in America, changing the course of our country’s history. As such, February 1 is a day in which all Americans can celebrate the freedom we have and the great country that makes it possible!
This video tells all about the 13th Amendment and the freedom it gave.
Additional Resources:
- Here is an article that tells all about National Freedom Day.
- Here is another article that tells about National Freedom Day.
Topics for Discussion:
- How do you think African-Americans felt when President Lincoln outlawed slavery?
- Why is freedom so important to our country?
Take Action:
- Visit the National Freedom Day page of the Joe Foss Institute website to learn great ways to celebrate this observance in your classroom!
- Visit the IMK post about Tyler Page to learn how he has raised money to help stop human trafficking, a form of modern-day slavery, and how you can support his cause!
Teacher Features:
- Here is a link to a Critical Reading Skills worksheet that you can use for elementary school students.
- Here is a link to a Critical Reading Skills worksheet that you can use for middle school students.
