upbeatBytes
NPR Culture

At 100, Juneteenth's 'grandmother' Opal Lee vows to 'keep on walking' for social issues

Opal Lee, known as the grandmother of Juneteenth, celebrated her 100th birthday at a ceremony for the planned Juneteenth Museum in Fort Worth, where she met former first lady Michelle Obama. She continues to advocate for social issues despite her age. Her presence highlights the ongoing importance of Juneteenth and civil rights efforts.

What happened

Opal Lee, a key figure in promoting Juneteenth, turned 100 and attended a ceremony for the Juneteenth Museum in Fort Worth. She met Michelle Obama and expressed her commitment to continuing her activism.

Why it matters

Opal Lee's continued advocacy shows the lasting impact of civil rights efforts and the importance of preserving historical events like Juneteenth. Her presence at the event helps keep the conversation about racial justice and history alive.

Why it belongs here

Opal Lee's story inspires people to stay engaged in social issues regardless of age. Her dedication highlights the power of individual action and the importance of remembering history to build a better future.

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