11 am CELEBRATING JUNETEENTH WITH STYLE! Master storyteller, Baba Wague Diakite, retells an authentic African tale the way he learned it as a child in The Hat Seller and the Monkeys. The vibrant, ceramic-tile paintings and our very own creative volunteer, Diane Karp, bring the hat seller, mischievous monkeys, and plants of the African countryside to life. Capture the magic of this story by designing your own African style hat. (appropriate for ages 4 and up)
3 PM CELEBRATING JUNETEENTH BY LOVING YOURSELF To love and believe in yourself is a power that every person should possess. Fabulous members of the Liberty High School Cops ’n’ Kids Club will share the story I Believe I Can by Grace Byers with you— a beautifully illustrated inspiration to motivate children of all backgrounds with that positive message. Demonstrate your talent and belief in yourself by creating a special craft described in this beautiful book. (appropriate for ages 4 and up)
Welcome to the Black Literacy Cops and Kids Reading Room, a dynamic initiative aimed at fostering a love for reading and strengthening bonds between law enforcement officers and children within the Black community. This innovative program brings together members of law enforcement and young readers in a supportive and engaging environment where literacy flourishes and relationships are nurtured.
Designed to promote literacy among children while also building trust and understanding between law enforcement and the community, the Black Literacy Cops and Kids Reading Room offers a variety of activities and resources to ignite the imagination and inspire a lifelong love for reading.
Children are invited to explore a curated selection of books that celebrate Black culture, history, and achievement, providing them with opportunities to see themselves represented in literature and to learn about the rich tapestry of African American experiences. From captivating stories and inspiring biographies to engaging picture books and interactive learning materials, there’s something for every young reader to enjoy.
Throughout the reading sessions, law enforcement officers serve as reading buddies and mentors, offering encouragement, guidance, and positive reinforcement as children delve into the world of books. These interactions not only promote literacy skills but also foster meaningful connections between officers and children, breaking down barriers and building bridges of trust and empathy.
In addition to reading activities, the Black Literacy Cops and Kids Reading Room may also feature guest speakers, storytelling sessions, book giveaways, and other special events designed to enrich the reading experience and promote community engagement.
By providing a safe and inclusive space where children can explore the joys of reading while forging positive relationships with law enforcement officers, the Black Literacy Cops and Kids Reading Room aims to empower young minds, strengthen communities, and create a brighter future for all.