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Texas Lawmakers Allocate $10M to Support National Juneteenth Museum

by Texas Recap Contributor

The Texas legislature has approved a historic $10 million in state funding to support the development of the National Juneteenth Museum in Fort Worth. The decision, which was confirmed in June 2025, marks a significant step in recognizing the cultural and historical importance of Juneteenth and ensuring that its legacy is preserved for future generations.

A Historic Step for Texas and Juneteenth

This funding represents a significant milestone for the Juneteenth movement, as the state government has officially committed to helping establish the National Juneteenth Museum as a major national cultural institution. The museum will be located in Fort Worth, where it will serve as a hub for education, reflection, and celebration of the history of emancipation, specifically focusing on the significance of Juneteenth.

Governor Greg Abbott signed the bill into law, expressing his support for the museum and its role in promoting a deeper understanding of the historical context surrounding Juneteenth. “Juneteenth is a defining moment in American history,” Governor Abbott said in a statement. “The creation of the National Juneteenth Museum will help ensure that the stories of resilience, freedom, and hope are told for generations to come.”

A Tribute to Dr. Opal Lee

The National Juneteenth Museum is being spearheaded by Dr. Opal Lee, a Fort Worth native and renowned civil rights advocate known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.” Dr. Lee has been at the forefront of efforts to make Juneteenth a national holiday and has worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the historical significance of Juneteenth.

The museum’s establishment will honor Dr. Lee’s lifelong commitment to racial justice and equity. It will feature exhibits dedicated to the history of slavery, the Emancipation Proclamation, and the journey toward freedom that culminated in Juneteenth. The museum will also explore the social, political, and cultural impact of Juneteenth, including the ongoing struggle for civil rights in the United States.

Dr. Lee’s role in the creation of the museum has been instrumental. “This is a victory for all of us who have fought for recognition and justice,” said Dr. Lee. “This museum will be a place where people of all ages can learn about the freedom that was hard-won, and how that history continues to shape our lives today.”

Economic Impact and Future Plans

The $10 million allocation will cover the costs of the museum’s construction, as well as its educational programming. The museum is expected to draw visitors from across the country, contributing to Fort Worth’s tourism industry and helping to boost the local economy. The museum will also provide job opportunities, including positions for historians, curators, and educators.

The museum is scheduled to open in late 2026, and plans include a comprehensive educational outreach program that will offer resources for schools and community groups. Additionally, the museum will host regular events, lectures, and performances that highlight African American culture and history.

The funding marks a pivotal moment in Texas’s commitment to preserving and celebrating African American history. It also signals a broader recognition of Juneteenth’s importance, not only in Texas but across the United States.

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