Celebrating Juneteenth: Emancipation Day Featuring ‘Juneteenth’s Grandmother’ Opal Lee | Holiday Special on WABC-TV

New York (WABC) — This year marks the 157th anniversary of Juneteenth. Juneteenth is a holiday that celebrates the first day of freedom for enslaved Africans in Texas and marks the end of slavery throughout the United States.

Known as “Juneteenth’s Grandmother,” Opal Lee will be featured on the WABC-TV special “Celebrating Juneteenth: Liberation Day” hosted by eyewitness newscaster Sade Baderinwa.

Lee talks to eyewitness newscaster, ‘here it is’ & Now host Sandra Bookman talks about making Juneteenth a federal holiday in what the activist considers her greatest achievement.

Lee, a 96-year-old retired teacher from Texas, spent years rallying people to join him in calling for a day to commemorate the abolition of slavery.

And in 2021, her longtime dream became a reality.

And she said she would walk 2.5 miles to Juneteenth to spread the message that Juneteenth means freedom.

Additionally, Eyewitness News reporter Darla Miles (born and raised in Texas) reflected on Lee’s profound impact on her life.

Juneteenth is also a time to spend time and share meals with family and friends.

Food served at celebrations is symbolic. Melva Wilson, the queen of comfort food, invites us into her kitchen to cook her favorite flourish dish and explain the importance of the color red. Eyewitness newscaster Charlene Alicott guides us.

Juneteenth isn’t the only holiday that celebrates black history. There’s also the story of Pink Star and a group that keeps traditions alive through dance.

Thousands are expected to attend the event here in New York City 14th Annual Juneteenth Festival in Brooklyn. The festival kicks off on Friday and features three days of music, art and skits.

But it’s more than just a celebration. Organizers want New Yorkers to know their history and shine a spotlight on black-owned businesses here in the 5th Ward. I will let you know.

Plus, explore the importance of the Juneteenth flag and more in the specials available for players above.