Fort Worth, Texas, January 23, 2026
Civil rights icon Opal Lee, known as the ‘Grandmother of Juneteenth,’ has been honored with her own Barbie doll as part of Mattel’s Inspiring Women collection. The doll features Lee’s iconic look and highlights her tireless advocacy for Juneteenth as a federal holiday. Available at major retailers, this collectible serves as an inspiration for future generations. Lee’s journey from Fort Worth to petition lawmakers for recognition exemplifies the power of advocacy and personal determination.
Fort Worth, Texas – In a momentous tribute to civil rights achievements, civil rights icon Opal Lee, affectionately known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” has been honored with her very own Barbie doll. As part of Mattel’s Inspiring Women collection, this doll celebrates Lee’s profound commitment to community advocacy and her instrumental role in establishing Juneteenth as a federal holiday.
The doll captures Lee’s signature look, donning a blue “Opal’s Walk for Freedom” T-shirt, white pants, sneakers, glasses, and showcasing her curly gray hair. The thoughtful design was crafted by Carlyle Nuera, with elegant packaging by Vicky Gevorkyan. Lee’s granddaughter conveyed that seeing the doll left her ecstatic and in disbelief, highlighting the emotional weight of this recognition.
This collectible doll is readily available at major retailers, including Walmart, Target, Amazon, and the Mattel website, allowing fans and supporters to bring home a piece of history.
Opal Lee’s Legacy
Born in 1926, Lee has exemplified dedication to civil rights, particularly her unwavering pursuit to have Juneteenth recognized nationally. At the age of 89, her remarkable journey included walking from Fort Worth to Washington, D.C., to petition lawmakers for this essential recognition. Her relentless advocacy came to fruition in 2021 when Juneteenth was officially acknowledged as a federal holiday. The following year, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her significant contributions to civil rights.
Lee’s journey inspires current and future generations to appreciate the power of individual voices in instigating social change. The release of this doll serves not only as a tribute to her legacy but also as an inspiration to young dreamers everywhere, demonstrating that determination can lead to historic victories.
FAQ Section
Who is Opal Lee?
Opal Lee is a 99-year-old civil rights activist from Fort Worth, Texas, known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth” for her efforts in making Juneteenth a federal holiday.
What is the Barbie doll’s design?
The doll features Lee’s signature look: a blue “Opal’s Walk for Freedom” T-shirt, white pants, sneakers, and glasses, with curly gray hair and a confident stance.
Where can I purchase the Opal Lee Barbie doll?
The doll is available at major retailers, including Walmart, Target, Amazon, and Mattel’s website.
What is the significance of the doll?
The doll honors Lee’s dedication to community advocacy and her pivotal role in making Juneteenth a federal holiday, inspiring future generations to recognize the impact of individual voices in driving positive change.
Key Features of the Opal Lee Barbie Doll
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Design | Blue “Opal’s Walk for Freedom” T-shirt, white pants, sneakers, glasses, curly gray hair, confident stance |
| Availability | Walmart, Target, Amazon, Mattel’s website |
| Significance | Honors Lee’s role in making Juneteenth a federal holiday, inspiring future generations |
Conclusion
The unveiling of the Opal Lee Barbie doll represents more than just a collectible; it embodies a legacy of resilience, advocacy, and change. As local entrepreneurs and community activists continue to drive progress in Dallas and beyond, recognizing figures like Opal Lee reminds us of the profound impact of dedicated individuals. By supporting local businesses and initiatives, we contribute to an environment where future leaders can thrive, nurturing the spirit of innovation and economic growth in Texas. Embrace the opportunity to reflect on Lee’s legacy and consider ways to foster support for local entrepreneurs who pave the way for future achievements.
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
