Fort Worth Opera and United Unlimited partnered for a Juneteenth Jamboree, as part of 94-year-old social impact leader Opal Lee’s 2.5-mile annual walk to Tarrant County Courthouse in downtown Fort Worth.

Before the parade began, hundreds of supporters gathered at Evans Avenue Plaza in the historic Southside neighborhood to join the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.” Bass Keron Jackson performed a four-song set, including an inspiring rendition of “I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free” that got Lee dancing.

The event continued with performances from the FWO Gospel Ensemble, soprano Alexandria Jackson, bass Seth Clarke, and soprano Audra Scott of such songs as “Can’t Give Up Now,” “Step by Step,” “Summertime,” “My Soul is a Witness,” and “Wade in the Watter.”

The showcase also featured speeches from General Director Afton Battle and Lee, who addressed the audience and crowd, at one point stating, “Together we can conquer the world.” She was also presented with a painting to commemorate the event.