06/19/2026
Today, as we celebrate I’m reflecting on the incredible legacy of Dr. Opal Lee. Her courage, passion for justice, and unwavering determination helped make Juneteenth a federally recognized holiday in 2021.
Through Opal’s Walk for Freedom, people across the country and around the world continue her mission by walking together annually in remembrance AND celebration of Opal’s milestone 100th birthday later this year.
In 2016 at 89 years old, Dr. Lee planned a 1,400 mile route from Fort Worth, TX to Washington, DC. and began walking 2.5 miles each day to symbolize the two and a half years enslaved people in Texas waited to learn they had been freed after the Emancipation Proclamation. Her journey became a movement that changed history.
“July 4th freed the land, Juneteenth freed the people.”
Happy Juneteenth. ❤️🖤💚
