Opal Lee, known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” was hospitalized in Cincinnati, Ohio, while receiving an award, her family confirmed. The 98-year-old activist is expected to be released soon and return home to Fort Worth, Texas.
Lee’s granddaughter, Dione Sims, said Lee is currently awaiting discharge orders and the family is focused on her safe return. Lee was being honored for her pivotal role in the recognition of Juneteenth as a national holiday.
Lee’s decades-long advocacy culminated in 2021 when Congress passed legislation designating Juneteenth as a federal holiday, signed into law by President Joe Biden. Juneteenth, observed on June 19, marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in Texas in 1865.
The family expressed gratitude for the public support and well-wishes. Officials at the Cincinnati event highlighted Lee’s lifelong dedication to civil rights and the promotion of Juneteenth.
No further health updates have been provided, but Lee’s condition is reported as stable. Her family plans to share additional information as she recovers.s
