Juneteenth Celebration presentation with Ted Carter

Join the Friends of the Library and guest speaker Ted Carter! 

Ted Carter’s Juneteenth presentation will explore the origins and legacy of Juneteenth, a day that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. The presentation will cover key historical moments—including the Emancipation Proclamation, the delayed freedom of enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, and the cultural importance of Juneteenth today.

Through storytelling, imagery, and group discussion, participants will reflect on what freedom means in America, both historically and in the present. The presentation will include a slideshow of historical photographs and artwork and will invite audience participation through questions and hands-on activity. All are welcome to attend this evening of learning, reflection, and community engagement.

About the Speaker:
Ted Carter is a retired eighth-grade science teacher from Cleveland, Ohio. He taught in Anchorage at Clark Middle School—one of the most diverse middle schools in the United States—before relocating to Homer, where he now lives.

Growing up near Shaker Heights, a wealthy and predominantly white suburb, Ted experienced firsthand the physical and social barriers that separated communities. A literal concrete wall between his neighborhood and Shaker Heights sparked his lifelong interest in challenging systemic division and promoting dialogue around equity and inclusion.

He has led presentations and community conversations on African American history, including “The African American Soldiers Who Built the Alaskan Canadian Highway.” Ted’s story has been featured on Idea stream Public Media.

His passion for science and education was sparked during an eye-opening canoeing trip in eighth grade, which introduced him to the wonders of the natural world. That experience inspired him to pursue a career in science education and to bring meaningful learning to young people and communities alike.