Opal Lee

Opal Lee
Lee in 2021
Born (1926-10-07) October 7, 1926 (age 98)[1]
Marshall, Texas, U.S.
EducationWiley College (BA), North Texas State University (MA)
Occupation(s)Activist
Counselor
Known for"Grandmother of Juneteenth"

Opal Lee (born October 7, 1926) is an American retired teacher, counselor, and activist in the movement to make Juneteenth a federally-recognized holiday. She is often described as the "grandmother of Juneteenth".[2]

On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed Senate Bill S. 475, making Juneteenth the eleventh federal holiday.[3] In 2024, Biden awarded Lee the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Nation's highest civilian honor.[4][5]

  1. ^ Ramirez, David Silva (October 8, 2022). "Who is Opal Lee, Grandmother of Juneteenth, nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize". Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Retrieved March 12, 2023.
  2. ^ Jackson, Angelique (June 17, 2021). "Why 94-Year-Old Activist Opal Lee Marched to Make Juneteenth a National Holiday". Variety. Retrieved June 18, 2021.
  3. ^ "Bill Signed: S. 475". White House Briefing Room - Statements and Releases. June 18, 2021. Retrieved June 18, 2021.
  4. ^ Baker, Peter (May 3, 2024). "Biden to Honor Prominent Democrats With Presidential Medal of Freedom". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved May 3, 2024.
  5. ^ "President Biden Announces Recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom". The White House. May 3, 2024. Retrieved May 3, 2024.