Opal Lee Visits Fort Worth Museum of Science and History

Nationally recognized activist Opal Lee visited the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History to see the brand-new display, Opal Lee: Social Impact Leader. Lee, who is widely recognized as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” dedicated her life to seeing Juneteenth become a federal holiday. Juneteenth marks the day on June 19, 1865, where enslaved Texans finally learned of their freedom, two-and-a-half years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.

After decades of continuous activism, Lee finally saw her dreams become a reality. On June 17, 2021, Lee joined President Joe Biden as he signed into law the bill formally establishing Juneteenth as a federal holiday.

On Thursday, June 24, Lee visited the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History to see the new display case created in her honor. Opal Lee: Social Impact Leader showcases artifacts from Ms. Opal’s numerous walks intended to raise awareness around the holiday. The display features the shoes worn on “Opal’s Walk 2 DC,” as well as several declarations recognizing Lee for her many achievements.

“What an honor it was to have Fort Worth’s very own Ms. Opal Lee—civil rights icon, activist, educator, and community leader—to the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History,” said Marianne Auld, the Chair of the Board at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. “Her commitment, her selflessness, and her fearlessness set a powerful example for us all.”

Alongside Opal Lee: Social Impact Leader, the Museum has redesigned and reconfigured all existing niche cases throughout their atrium. These continuously rotating displays showcase materials from the Museum’s rich collection and local partnered organizations.