BusinessHollywood & EntertainmentGraphic Novel 'First Freedom' Explores The Roots Of Juneteenth

First Freedom bends over backwards to be explanatory and narrative rather than didactic, and it helps that Opal Lee is such an endearing and relatable figure. The story does not flinch from the realities of segregation, including the violence that the family faced moving into white neighborhoods in Fort Worth in the 1950s, but there is more hope than fear, more faith in the power of righteousness to defeat injustice, in its pages.

"We're honored to bring Opal Lee's extraordinary story to life for a new generation through the creative vision of Angélique Roché, Alvin Epps, Bex Glendining, and Millicent Monroe," said David Steward II, CEO of Polarity, the company that owns Oni Press. "First Freedom illustrates how one voice can inspire meaningful change, chronicling Opal's journey from grassroots activism to national recognition, elevating Juneteenth beyond a historical milestone. The graphic novel serves as a powerful testament to resilience, justice, and freedom-a narrative that embodies the values we aspire to share with our Oni readers."

Oni is not a publisher that shies away from controversy, though it is doubtful they viewed this book as especially polarizing. But at a moment when just remembering historical fact feels like a political act, First Freedom hits different this Juneteenth.

Below is an exclusive preview of pages from First Freedom by Angélique Roché, Alvin Epps, Bex Glendining, and Millicent Monroe (Oni Press, 2026).

First Freedom page 140Courtesy of Oni Press

First Freedom page 142Courtesy of Oni Press

First Freedom page 142Courtesy of Oni Press

First Freedom page 143Oni Press

First Freedom page 144Courtesy of Oni Press

First Freedom page 145Courtesy of Oni Press

Editorial StandardsReprints & PermissionsLOADING VIDEO PLAYER...FORBES' FEATURED Video