Opal Lee, ‘grandmother of Juneteenth,’ honored with barbie doll

Mattel has released a new Barbie doll that celebrates Opal Lee, the 99‑year‑old activist known as the “grandmother of Juneteenth.”

The company added Lee to its Inspiring Women series, which highlights trailblazers who shaped history and continue to influence new generations.

Opal Lee Barbie Doll: A Tribute to a Lifetime of Advocacy

White House, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Lee spent decades pushing for national recognition of Juneteenth. The holiday marks June 19, 1865, when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned they were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation and months after the Civil War ended.

She worked as a teacher and community leader, and she used every platform available to educate the public. In 2016, she walked from Fort Worth, TX to Washington, D.C., at age 89 to raise awareness. Her efforts helped Juneteenth become a federal holiday in 2021.

Opal Lee Hopes the Doll Inspires Young Leaders

Mattel

Lee said she wants the new doll to motivate children to believe in their power to create change.

“It has been a joy to partner with Barbie on my Inspiring Women doll,” she said in a statement.

“I hope my story encourages the next generation to never underestimate the power of one voice.”

She added that one person can spark change, and that spark can influence the world.

Mattel Highlights Lee’s Impact

Mattel leaders said Lee’s work aligns with Barbie’s mission to inspire young people.

Nathan Baynard, Mattel’s vice president and head of Barbie, 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.”

Details of the Opal Lee Barbie Doll

The new doll reflects Lee’s signature look and her advocacy work. It includes:

• Glasses
• A blue Unity Unlimited “Opal’s Walk for Freedom” T‑shirt
• White pants
• Sneakers

The doll joins other figures in the Inspiring Women series, including Bessie Coleman, Madam C.J. Walker, Ida B. Wells and the Sally Ride.

Release and Pricing

The Opal Lee Barbie doll went on sale Jan. 22 and retails for $37.80.