An Exclusive Excerpt from ‘FIRST FREEDOM: THE STORY OF OPAL LEE AND JUNETEENTH,’ A Defining History of the Struggle to Recognize America’s Newest National Holiday

PORTLAND, OR (February 12, 2026) – On February 10, 2026, Oni Press, the multiple Eisner and Harvey Award-winning publisher of groundbreaking comics and graphic novels since 1997, released First Freedom: The Story of Opal Lee and Juneteenth, the first-ever graphic novel dedicated to the history and origin of the Juneteenth holiday. This timely and topical 208-page biography chronicles the inspirational journey and resilient determination of Dr. Opal Lee — known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth” — who spent decades in pursuit of one singular cause: to officially recognize American emancipation  with its own national holiday. Ahead of its publication during Black History Month in February 2026, Oni Press is unveiling the very first preview of this historic and eagerly anticipated publication by acclaimed journalist, producer, and author Angélique Roché (My Super Hero is Black), artists Alvin Epps (I Survived Hurricane Katrina, 2005: A Graphic Novel), Bex Glendining (On Starlit Shores), and rising star Millicent Monroe, and colorist Damali Beatty with lettering by Alexis Bennett with Andworld Design. 

First Freedom: The Story of Opal Lee and Juneteenth was created with the support and involvement of both Dr. Lee and her granddaughter, Mrs. Dione Sims, and is brought to life by three distinguished artists. Writer Angélique Roché who conducted in-person interviews with Dr. Lee and immersed…