June 19, 2023 marks the 156th celebration of Juneteenth, a holiday commemorating enslaved African Americans’ emancipation.
On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln passed the Emancipation Proclamation, freeing all enslaved people beyond the Union and into the Confederacy. The Thirteenth Amendment formalized freedom to enslaved people across the United States.
After Lincoln passes the proclamation, news spread across the nation but does not reach Texas until two and a half years later.
Juneteenth commemorates the moment in 1865 when enslaved Texans were notified. The holiday is often called the second Independence Day.
It includes large meals shared by friends and families, wearing their best clothes. Today, according to Oprah Daily, the most common foods on Juneteenth are barbeque and red-colored foods. Red symbolizes the times of enslavement.
Throughout the 1800s and early 1900s, Juneteenth celebrations were much smaller than today. Thanks to the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” Opal Lee, Juneteenth is now celebrated by millions nationwide.
Opal Lee’s Early Life and Education:
Born in Marshall, Texas, in 1926, Opal Lee saw firsthand the effects segregation and racial injustice had on the nation. Stories from her family and community about Juneteenth resulted in a passion for equality and the drive to make Juneteenth a federally recognized holiday.
After earning a Bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Wiley College, Lee received a Master’s degree in counseling and guidance from what is now known as the University of North Texas. She then worked as an educator for the Fort Worth Independent School District and later a counselor for home-schooled children.
Working as an Activist in Her Community:
Retiring from counseling in 1977, Lee co-founded the Tarrant County Black Historical and Genealogical Society. The organization works to educate and share the rich culture within Tarrant County. In 2021, one of Opal Lee’s biggest accomplishments was made when President Joe Biden officially marked Juneteenth as a federally-recognized holiday.
Celebrate Juneteenth in Fort Worth:
Opal Lee and the Fort Worth community raise awareness and celebrate freedom at Opal’s Walk. This 2.5-mile event represents the 2.5 years that it took for the news of freedom to reach the enslaved people in Texas. Locals joining the walk begin in front of the Fort Worth Public Library and walk alongside Lee through the city.
Opal Lee works tirelessly to bring equality and justice to the African American community and educate the nation on the history of Juneteenth and the emancipation of enslaved people. Her legacy is her commitment to her community. It will last forever as a light of hope, determination and equality.
To celebrate Juneteenth in Fort Worth, check out the city’s calendar to get information on events like art showcases, community workouts, rodeos and more! At Glint Advertising, respecting and sharing our history is essential to building a better future. We are a great match to build your brand and spread your message if you feel the same.
