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Opal Lee to Skip Fort Worth Walk for Freedom and Participate Remotely

Recovering from a recent hospitalization, Lee will observe the annual Fort Worth Juneteenth march remotely under her granddaughter’s leadership.

Overview

  • Lee’s absence marks the first time she will not physically lead the Walk for Freedom since launching it in 2016.
  • The 98-year-old was hospitalized in Ohio last month while en route to receive the International Freedom Conductor Award.
  • Faced with health concerns and high temperatures forecast for June 19, Lee will join the event through live remote connection.
  • Dione Sims, president of Unity Unlimited Inc. and Lee’s granddaughter, will guide participants on the 2.5-mile route from Farrington Field.
  • The annual walk symbolizes the 160th anniversary of Juneteenth and honors the two-and-a-half-year delay in emancipation news reaching Texas slaves.