In this episode of The Legal Lens Podcast, host Angela Reddock-Wright is joined by Dione Sims, granddaughter of the legendary “Grandmother of Juneteenth” Opal Lee and Executive Director of Unity Unlimited. Together, they explore the enduring impact of Juneteenth, the movement that made it a national holiday, and the vision for the future as America heads towards 2026—a year marking the nation’s 250th birthday and Opal Lee’s 100th.
In this episode of The Legal Lens Podcast, host Angela Reddock-Wright is joined by Dione Sims, granddaughter of the legendary “Grandmother of Juneteenth” Opal Lee and Executive Director of Unity Unlimited. Together, they explore the enduring impact of Juneteenth, the movement that made it a national holiday, and the vision for the future as America heads towards 2026—a year marking the nation’s 250th birthday and Opal Lee’s 100th.
Dione shares intimate stories about working alongside her grandmother, organizing national “Opal’s Walk for Freedom” events, and why Juneteenth is America’s great unifier in a time of challenge. She unveils the power of coalition-building, the multiethnic and multigenerational roots of the movement, and how the fight for freedom and unity requires everyone’s engagement today.
Key Topics Covered