Opal Lee, the 97-year-old Texas native affectionately known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” has made an indelible mark on American history.
Opal Lee pauses as she gives a tour of her home Thursday, July 1, 2021, in Fort Worth, Texas . Opal Lee 's dream of seeing Juneteenth become a federal holiday was finally realized over the summer, but the energetic woman who spent years rallying people to join her push for the day commemorating the end of slavery is hardly letting up on a lifetime of work teaching and helping others.
Lee’s advocacy journey began at the age of 89, a testament to her unwavering dedication. She organized walks in cities across the country, raising awareness and garnering support for the cause. Her campaign gained momentum, capturing the attention of the nation and culminating in the official recognition of June 19 as a federal holiday.
In 2023, Lee’s significant contributions were further acknowledged when she became the second Black person to have her portrait hung in the Senate chamber of the Texas Capitol.Her legacy of activism and perseverance was also recognized on an international scale with a nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2022.
Opal Lee’s dream of seeing Juneteenth recognized as a federal holiday has come true, but her work is far from over. She continues to inspire and advocate, ensuring that the history and significance of Juneteenth are never forgotten.Moriah Ballard joined the KPRC 2 digital team in the fall of 2021.
Juneteenth Galveston Texas Black History Women's History
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Opal Lee, Grandmother of Juneteenth, gets keys to Fort Worth homeThe Grandmother of Juneteenth – who lost her house on the same lot to a racist mob 85 years ago – smiled as she took the key to the 1,700-square-feet, three-bed...
Read more »
Opal Lee kicks off another year of Juneteenth celebrationsThe month will mean a lineup of Juneteenth events, including new editions like a film festival and a closing weekend of concerts with national recording artists. A key difference this year is the annual walk’s location.
Read more »
How to join Opal's Walk on Juneteenth in DallasOpal’s Walk for Freedom starts at 9 a.m. Wednesday, June 19, beginning at the African American Museum of Dallas at 3536 Grand Ave.
Read more »
Celebrate Juneteenth at Opal's Walk for FreedomWalk and celebrate Juneteenth with Dr. Opal Lee, Unity Unlimited, Inc., NBC 5, and Telemundo 39, on Wednesday, June 19, at Opal’s Walk for Freedom. The…
Read more »
Civil rights icon Opal Lee gets the keys to a home 85 years in the making in Fort WorthOpal Lee, known as the Grandmother of Juneteenth, saw her brand new home on Annie Street for the first time on Friday morning.
Read more »
A push to mark the buried history of ‘harrowing’ slave prisons near Busch StadiumOpal Lee, the 97-year-old 'grandmother' of Juneteenth, was one of the 19 people who were awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom at the White House on May 3, 2024.
Read more »