In tribute to her enduring legacy as an activist and educator, Dr. Opal Lee, 99, often referred to as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” is being honored with her own Barbie doll.
Opal Lee’s doll is included in the Barbie Inspiring Women collection, which aims to honor “extraordinary women from all fields who inspire future generations.”
The Barbie brand honored Lee by adding her to the Inspiring Women Collection. Lee is recognized for spearheading the successful 2021 movement to establish Juneteenth as a national holiday, according to People.
Celebrated annually on June 19th, this special holiday commemorates the moment in 1865 when African American slaves in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their freedom. This announcement came over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation abolished slavery and two months following the conclusion of the Civil War in April 1865.
Designer Carlyle Nuera created the commemorative doll, which was packaged by Vicky Gevorkyan. The doll is a tribute to Opal Lee’s signature look for her annual Opal’s Walk for Freedom, wearing a custom event T-shirt with white joggers and sneakers.
Lee expressed her hope that the doll’s release, which comes nearly five years after its initial inspiration, will serve as a source of inspiration for more children.
“It has been a joy to partner with Barbie on my Inspiring Women doll,” Lee said in a statement, as reported by ABC News. “I hope my story encourages the next generation to never underestimate the power of one voice. As I often say, one person can start a change, and that can change the world.”
Mattel’s statement emphasized that the Barbie doll of Lee showcases “the power of purpose in action.”
Mattel Inc. Vice President and Head of Barbie Nathan Baynard said, “[Lee’s] lifelong commitment to community, education, and equity mirrors Barbie’s mission to inspire the next generation to raise their voice, create change, and believe in their limitless potential.”
Born in Marshall, Texas, in 1926, Lee’s dedication to the cause was deeply personal, stemming from the tragic event in 1939 when White rioters set her family’s home on fire on Juneteenth.
President Joe Biden officially signed the legislation in 2021, recognizing Lee’s dedication and lifelong efforts to establish Juneteenth as a federal holiday.
The retired educator dedicated decades to the effort of making Juneteenth a nationally recognized holiday.
To build awareness, she would undertake a symbolic two-and-a-half-mile walk, representing the two-and-a-half years it took for the news of freedom to reach every enslaved person in the United States. She was unable to participate in the 2025 walk due to a recent health issue.
The recognition was celebrated by users after Barbie and Lee shared images of the doll in a collaborative Instagram post.
One commenter wrote, “I’ll definitely be buying this doll. We LOVE to see this kind of representation, Barbie…thank you!”
Another said, “What a beautiful way to honor this inspiring woman! Barbie I love you so much!!!”
READ ALSO: Opal Lee: 97-year-old ‘Grandmother of Juneteenth’ to receive 8th honorary doctorate
