Marching for Freedom: Juneteenth and the Power of Voting

Opal Lee (2nd L), US Vice President Kamala Harris, US President Joe Biden gives a pen to US Congresswoman Barbara Lee (L) after signing the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act © JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images

Marching for Freedom: Juneteenth and the Power of Voting

This summer marked another year of commemorating Juneteenth and reflecting on the meaning of freedom. From June 19th to July 4th, we had the opportunity to participate in a journey that both honored our past and brought us closer to a future where every voice is heard, and every vote counts.

Opal’s Walk for Freedom

Since accomplishing the goal of achieving the recognition of a national holiday, Opal Lee continues to walk annually to educate the nation on the relevance of Juneteenth and the freedom it represents. Known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” Dr. Lee has dedicated her life to educating others about the importance of this day, which marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. “At 97 years old, I just want people to know that Juneteenth is a unifier,” said Ms. Opal. "If people can be taught to hate, they can be taught to love." Her annual walk, Opal's Walk for Freedom, is a powerful symbol of the journey toward true freedom for all Americans. Through her work with Unity Unlimited, Inc., and with the support of her granddaughter, Dione Sims, Ms. Opal has programs serving returning citizens, the jobless, and the hungry. She leads her work with a focus on unity and love.

At the same time, Opal's Walk for Freedom expanded far beyond Fort Worth, Texas. This year, Opal's Walk included events in Los Angeles, Chicago, New York City, and, for the fi rst time, an international host city, Tokyo, Japan. Sims explained, “Juneteenth is not just about the past—it's about the future.

It's about building a more just and equitable society for generations to come. By participating in Opal's Walk for Freedom, you're making a statement. You're saying yes to equality, yes to justice, and yes to unity.”

As Ms. Opal puts it: "Juneteenth means freedom, and freedom is for everyone every day."

Voting is Power

As we approach another election cycle, it is crucial to remember the power of our vote. Juneteenth reminds us that the freedoms we enjoy today were hard-won and must be actively defended. Voting is a fundamental right and a powerful tool for making change. While registering to vote is a crucial first step, our impact as individuals relies on getting to the polls and voting with conscience. 

Sims explains it this way, “Juneteenth celebrates the freedoms gained by those previously enslaved, like serving in the military or government, owning property instead of being property, choosing how to worship, who to marry and have a family. These are all rights we enjoy today and voting is the way we keep them.”

Join Ms. Opal in voting, walking, and celebrating the freedom that Juneteenth represents. Together, we have the power to ensure that freedom is not just a privilege for some but a reality for all.