As Juneteenth celebrates freedom, equity, and the reflection of history, the WNBA and its franchises continue to leverage their platforms to drive meaningful community impact.

At the heart of this movement are the Dallas Wings, whose deep roots in the North Texas community provide a powerful backdrop for honoring the holiday. Central to the organization’s efforts is an inspiring partnership with Dallas-Fort Worth’s own Dr. Opal Lee, the legendary activist widely recognized as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” whose relentless advocacy helped establish Juneteenth as a federal holiday.

For Dallas, the opportunity over the years to collaborate with a living legend right in their own backyard has been both an honor and a guiding force for their social responsibility initiatives.

Grandmother of Juneteenth, Dr. Opal Lee, poses for a photo with the Seattle Storm and the Dallas Wings on June 12, 2022

“Getting to work alongside hometown hero Dr. Opal Lee has been incredibly meaningful for the Dallas Wings and our community,” said LaDondra Wilson, Dallas Wings Vice President of Social Responsibility. “She represents courage, perseverance, and the power of advocating for change at any age.”

Wilson emphasized that the impact of Dr. Lee’s work extends beyond a single day or month on the calendar. It serves as a year-round call to action for the team, its players, and its fans.

“For Juneteenth—and every day—her presence reminds us of the importance of honoring history while continuing to push forward for equity and unity,” Wilson added. “Partnering with Dr. Lee allows us to not only celebrate the significance of Juneteenth but to actively engage our fans and community in carrying that legacy forward.”

Carrying that legacy forward requires a unified vision of the holiday. Ms. Dione Sims – granddaughter of Dr. Opal Lee – is the Executive Director of Unity Unlimited, Inc., the Dallas Wings’ selected nonprofit in the 2025 Commissioner’s Cup Tournament, dedicated to providing educational activities and resources that foster community harmony. She believes the true message of Juneteenth can be applied universally.

United Unlimited, Inc. receives a check following being selected as the Dallas Wings’ nonprofit in the 2025 Commissioner’s Cup Tournament

When asked what she hopes WNBA fans and people around the country carry with them as they observe and celebrate Juneteenth, her answer was straightforward. “That Juneteenth is a UNIFIER.”

 “The focus is FREEDOM for everybody, every day, not just in June,” Sims continued. “Juneteenth can be the catalyst that starts us talking about the real issues that separate us, so we can heal from past wrongs, to make the future better for the next generation,” Sims said.

As the league looks to the future, teams’ partnerships with local nonprofits, alongside the ongoing collaboration between the Dallas Wings and Dr. Opal Lee, serve as a blueprint for honoring history while actively shaping a better tomorrow.

Please find below the teams’ 2026 Juneteenth/Black heritage-themed game nights:

Team Black Excellence & Juneteenth theme games