It’s Black History Month! I know you all remember the name Sojourner Truth. If you’re like me you remember the name, but probably forgot her historical contributions. Here are some quick reminders.
- Born into slavery as Isabella Baumfree in 1797.
- Stood 6ft tall
- Women’s Rights Activist, Speaker, & Minister
- In her speech “Ain’t I a Woman?”, she spoke on her discrimination as a Black woman.
- Changed her name to Sojourner Truth in 1843 as she believed she was called to travel and preach the truth.
- First Black woman to sue a white man in court and win! The case was regarding gaining her 5 year son back after being sold into slavery.
- Disagreed with Frederick Douglass whereas he believed the Black men’s right to vote should happen first, then for Black women. She felt both could happen at the same time.
- Worked tirelessly to help freed Blacks find jobs after Civil War ended.
- In 1850 her autobiography, The Narrative of Sojourner Truth was published although she was unable to read or write.
- Died Nov 26, 1883.
Sojourner Truth is my kinda lady. I’m all for standing up for women’s rights and particularly Black women. She stood up against oppression. She fought for her family. She also used her gift, her experience to help others. What a remarkable woman!
I want you to take note that she published her autobiography in 1850 without knowing how to read or write. Almost 200 years have passed and we have all the resources you need within the click of a button. If you are an aspiring author, don’t be discouraged. Keep pressing on. Our ancestors wrote and published books before slavery was even abolished. You got this! Make them proud!
Don’t forget my book is available online at Barnes & Noble and Amazon.