ACPS June Recognitions and Cultural Observances

Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) honors national and cultural recognitions each month that highlight the rich diversity and shared values of our community. These include both month-long and week-long observances that provide opportunities for learning, celebration and reflection. From heritage months to awareness weeks, these recognitions allow us to spotlight our students, staff and families while reinforcing our commitment to an inclusive, welcoming environment for all. The observances for the month of June are included here and on our Recognitions and Cultural Observances webpage.

Pride Month - Honors the 1969 Stonewall Riots and works to achieve equal justice for LGBTQ+ Americans. Learn more about Pride Month and its origin story. #Pride 2026

National Caribbean American Heritage Month - A month to celebrate the many ways in which Caribbean Americans have helped shape the United States and to pay tribute to the common culture and bonds of friendship that unite the United States and Caribbean countries. Find out more about National Caribbean American Heritage Month and empowering communities through heritage. #CaribbeanAmericanHeritageMonth

National Immigrant Heritage Month - By presidential proclamation, a month to "learn more about the history of our nation’s diverse and varied immigrant communities and to observe this month with appropriate programming and activities that remind us of the values of diversity, equity and inclusion." The American Association of School Librarians provides additional information to celebrate National Immigrant Heritage Month. #CelebrateImmigrants

Wear Orange Weekend/National Gun Violence Awareness Day - June 5-7, 2026: Wear Orange, highlight the Be SMART program for safe gun storage. June 5, 2026 is recognized as National Gun Violence Awareness Day.

Juneteenth - June 19, 2026: This day is a federal holiday in the United States that is celebrated annually on June 19 to commemorate the end of slavery in this country. Find out more about the historical legacy of Juneteenth from the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

First Day of Summer - June 21, 2026: The first day of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, commonly referred to as the summer solstice, marks the longest period of daylight and the start of astronomical summer at 4:24 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time. It is the longest day and shortest night of the year.

Helen Keller’s Birthday - June 27, 2026: Helen Keller was born on June 27, 1880. She became deaf and blind as the result of illness as a toddler. Keller graduated cum laude from Radcliffe College in 1904. She became an author, educator and crusader for causes of persons with specialized needs.