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Opal Lee Leads Juneteenth Walk, Medalist, Publishes Memoir, Expands Nationwide

6/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Opal Lee led Fort Worth’s Juneteenth Walk for Freedom on June 19, 2026, covering the 2.5-mile route.
Lee released her memoir A Committee of One, offering personal history and activism guidance.
She received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2024 for securing federal Juneteenth recognition.
Granddaughter Dione Sims aims to expand the walk to every state by 2030, citing its 2.5-mile symbolism.

History

Historical Context

June 19, 1865, General Gordon Granger announced emancipation in Texas, starting Juneteenth. After state recognitions and congressional bills in 1996-1997, activist Opal Lee’s 2016-17 walk to Washington helped pass the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, approved by the Senate unanimously and the House by 415 votes on June 16, 2021. In 2026 Lee’s Fort Worth 2.5-mile Walk for Freedom continues the legacy.

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Story summary

Opal Lee led Fort Worth’s Juneteenth Walk for Freedom on June 19, 2026, covering the 2.5-mile route.
Lee released her memoir A Committee of One, offering personal history and activism guidance.
She received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2024 for securing federal Juneteenth recognition.
Granddaughter Dione Sims aims to expand the walk to every state by 2030, citing its 2.5-mile symbolism.

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