Grab your walking shoes and join “Opal’s Walk for Freedom” on Juneteenth. This year the walk is moving to Dallas for a two and a half mile stroll through historic Fair Park. NBC 5’s Noelle Walker explains the location’s significance in North Texas’ Black history.
Walk and celebrate Juneteenth with Dr. Opal Lee, Unity Unlimited, Inc., NBC 5, and Telemundo 39, on Wednesday, June 19, at Opal’s Walk for Freedom. The 2.5-mile walk starts at 9 a.m. at the African American Museum, Dallas in Fair Park. Enjoy the beautiful Fair Park grounds and culture as we walk to honor the national holiday.
"We're excited," African American Museum Deputy Director/COO Dr. Marvin Dulaney said. "We feel real good that she's bringing the holiday to the African American Museum here in Dallas."
Dr. Lee, also known as the "Grandmother of Juneteenth," made history when Juneteenth National Independence Day was signed into law as a national holiday on June 17, 2021. As a retired schoolteacher and counsellor, the 97 year-young social activist started a movement to make Juneteenth an official federal holiday and was honored as a 2022 Nobel Peace Prize nominee. She is committed to her mission to educate others about Juneteenth and is an inspiration to all.
This year's walk site is significant in North Texas' Black History.
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"It is very significant that the African American Museum occupies this space and tells this history," Dulaney said.
An exhibit inside the museum contains General Order No. 3 from June 19, 1865...Juneteenth. An historic marker outside the museum shows it sits on the site of the former Hall of Negro Life, which was build for the 1936 Centennial celebration.
"Well, they tore is down in March of 1937," Dulaney said, pointing out that the new building stood for less than a year. "Texas was segregated and racially biased. They were not too excited about having a Hall of Negro Life here in Fair Park after the Centennial."
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"I think we've come a long way. Obviously, some would argue not far enough," Dulaney said. "But at least we can see these changes visibly taking place over time."
Register today for Opal's Walk for Freedom. Bring your friends and the entire family to this fun, inspirational walk. To walk in-person at Fair Park or to walk virtually, click HERE.
Celebrate Juneteenth
Opal’s Walk for Freedom
Wednesday, June 19
9:00 a.m. – Walk Begins
African American Museum, Dallas
3536 Grand Avenue
Fair Park – Dallas
To register to walk in-person or virtually, click HERE.
