This February, Oni Press will publish First Freedom: The Story of Opal Lee and Juneteenth as part of a yearlong celebration of Opal Lee’s hundredth birthday. And in advance of that momentous occasion, we’ve got a preview of the new graphic novel, below.
Written by Angélique Roché with art by Alvin Epps, Millicent Monroe, and Bex Glendining, the book was created with the “support and involvement” of Dr. Lee and her granddaughter, Dione Sims. In addition to telling the life story of Lee, it also includes back matter with insights on Juneteenth, on the occassion of 46 years after it was first recognized as a holiday in Texas (and a mere five as a national holiday).
“This book tells our history in a way young people love — and it’s rooted in the truth,” said Dr. Opal Lee via press release. “It’s a powerful tool to get them reading and learning.”
First Freedom: The Story of Opal Lee and Juneteenth Preview
Check out five pages and two covers from the February 2, 2026, publishing issue here! Click the thumbnails for a larger version:
First Freedom: The Story of Opal Lee and Juneteenth Official Synopsis:
The incredible journey of activist Opal Lee—known as the Grandmother of Juneteenth—is brought to life in this biographical graphic novel that not only explores Opal’s remarkable path, but the history of the holiday of Juneteenth itself.
From the 1860s to Ms. Opal’s childhood home, from her years as a teacher to the White House, First Freedom: The Story of Opal Lee and Juneteenth seeks to give readers an insight into the history behind one of the central figures in the creation of America’s newest federal holiday, Juneteenth.
Born in 1926, Opal Lee grew up in a racially divided America and dedicated her life to overcoming the obstacles presented therein. A lifelong educator, Ms. Opal has been a community activist all her life, and would take on the movement to celebrate and commemorate Juneteenth not just as a holiday, but as a symbol of comprehensive freedom for all people.
Ms. Opal’s life personifies the fight for everyday freedom that leads to lasting change. As the Grandmother of Juneteenth says, “There is so much more to do.”
Written by acclaimed journalist, producer, and author Angélique Roché (My Super Hero is Black) and drawn by a trio of talented artists—including Alvin Epps (I Survived Hurricane Katrina, 2005: A Graphic Novel), Bex Glendining (the upcoming Indigo Port), and rising star Millicent Monroe—The First Freedom: The Story of Opal Lee and Juneteenth promises to illuminate the life of a singular woman and the history of a momentous holiday, with additional back matter providing more insights into Juneteenth’s history and the making of this graphic novel tribute.
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