Opal Lee was born in Marshall, Texas on October 7, 1926. She moved to Forth Worth, Texas at age 10. Her life's journey has lead her to the path of being considered by many the 'Grandmother of Juneteeth'. In 2016, at the age of 89, she started walking from Fort Worth, TX to Washington DC in support of making Juneteenth / June 19 a National Holiday. Opal Lee would say she's just a little old lady in tennis shoes getting in everyone's business.
Juneteenth started in Texas, and for many years has gained strong support all across the country with the help of activist Opal Lee, who continues on at the age of 94 . She was recently recognized as an honoree of the International Peace Honors for being a 'Voice of Peace' for her activism and support for Juneteenth. Other honorees include Dr. Fauci, Ricky Martin and many more.
Opal Lee believes Juneteenth recognizes not only the freedom of the enslaved, but the many who helped and even gave their lives for their freedom. Making Juneteenth on June 19 a National Holiday can be a unifier. Opal's Walk 2 DC continues to bring awareness of the nationwide support. There is legislation in the Senate and the House called the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act waiting to be passed into law. You can sign the petition to help make Juneteenth a National Holiday in 2021!
On July 29, 2020 the Austin City Council established Juneteenth on June 19 as an official holiday in Austin! #SocialJusticeAustin
Find out about the Juneteenth Legacy Project / Absolute Equality for All recently unveiled.