President Biden Recognizes Juneteenth Activist

Lee has been raising awareness about Juneteenth and advocating for the day to be a federal holiday for years.

President Biden took a moment Thursday to recognize Opal Lee, a 94-year-old woman who's been at the forefront of the fight to make Juneteenth a national holiday.  "We're blessed to mark the day in the presence of Miss Opal Lee. As my mother would say, 'God love her,'" he said. "Miss Opal, you're incredible. Grandmother of the movement to make Juneteenth a federal holiday. You're an incredible woman, Miss Opal, you really are." Before speaking, President Biden walked down to the audience to personally thank and acknowledge her.