Fort Worth approves land lease for National Juneteenth Museum in Historic Southside
Fort Worth, Texas – In a major step toward honoring Juneteenth’s legacy, the Fort Worth City Council has approved a resolution to lease city-owned land for the construction of the National Juneteenth Museum. The decision, made Tuesday night, paves the way for a landmark institution in the Historic Southside, a neighborhood deeply tied to the story of freedom in America.
The forthcoming museum will stand as a tribute to Fort Worth’s role in Juneteenth history and the tireless advocacy of Opal Lee, widely known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.” Lee’s lifelong push for national recognition of Juneteenth culminated in its designation as a federal holiday in 2021. Now, with the city’s backing, her dream of a museum dedicated to the history and significance of the day is set to become reality.
A key concern throughout the process has been the future of the Southside Community Center (SCC), a longstanding hub for local services since its establishment in 1970. To address this, the council’s plan ensures that SCC programs will not be displaced but rather relocated to the Hazel Harvey Peace (HHP) Center for Neighborhoods. The HHP Center, built in 2009, sits just half a mile away and offers modern facilities to accommodate ongoing community needs. SCC will remain operational at its current site until museum construction begins, ensuring a seamless transition.
City officials have actively engaged with the community, holding multiple public meetings to gauge feedback on the proposed lease agreement. The response was largely positive, with residents voicing strong support for the museum—provided essential community services remained accessible. The council’s decision reflects a commitment to both preserving history and upholding the needs of local residents.
Beyond its cultural and historical significance, the National Juneteenth Museum is expected to drive economic growth and tourism in the area. City leaders view the project as a transformative moment, blending heritage with progress in a way that benefits the entire community.
Set to open in 2026, the museum promises to be more than just a collection of exhibits—it will be a living testament to resilience, liberation, and the unyielding fight for justice. With Fort Worth taking a leading role in this initiative, the Historic Southside is poised to become a national focal point for Juneteenth education and celebration.
