Black History Month - Great Women in History
Because history wouldn't be the same without the great work of these women, let's embrace their achievements and have them as an inspiration for our future. We want to share every week the work of 4 different women that had an impact on our society. For this week, we want to share the work of Ida B. Wells-Barnett, Harriet Tubman, Madame C.J. Walker, and Sojourner Truth.
Image: Courtesy of the National Women’s History Museum
Ida B. Wells-Barnett
We've all heard the stories from our mothers, our teachers, and our elders. They tell us of the brave few who have stood up and boldly said 'no', ready to risk it all for justice in their lifetimes. Ida B. Wells-Barnett was one of those people. She was an American investigative journalist, educator, and an early leader in the Civil rights movement. Throughout her life she fought for social reform through her powerful writings and speeches, calling out violence against African-Americans and women's right to vote. She spoke truth to power, refusing to be silenced, a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come. Ida B Wells-Barnett was an unrelenting fighter for freedom and justice-- one whose strength and courage we should remember today.
Image: Courtesy of the National Women’s History Museum
Harriet Tubman
Harriet Tubman was a heroine in the eyes of her people and a symbol of strength to the world. Her bravery, awe-inspiring resilience, and commitment to freedom led her on repeated expeditions into the wilderness, rescuing hundreds of enslaved African Americans and ushering them to freedom via the Underground Railroad. Harriet showed us that no matter what life throws at us, we must never give up and must continue to fight for justice, equality, and freedom. Let us take inspiration from her incredible courage and determination and strive to realize her dream of true freedom.
Image: Courtesy of the National Women’s History Museum
Madame C.J. Walker
Madame C.J. Walker was a titan of American business, a trailblazer for African American women, and an enduring symbol of the power of perseverance. She was a visionary who understood that the freedom to be anything was not just for some Americans, but for all. She was a self-made millionaire in an age when that concept was unheard of, apprenticing as a laundress and dressmaker while selling hair care products door-to-door. She amassed a fortune, investing her wealth into what would become the first real estate investments made by an African American woman. She used her money to fund causes she felt passionate about: education, civil rights, and the YMCA. She believed in the power of hard work, imagination, and determination, inspiring generations of women and men of color to pursue their dreams and realize their potential. Madame C.J. Walker remains a shining example that anything is possible with ambition, perseverance, and courage. She is an inspiration to us all, teaching us that with hard work, determination, and resilience, nothing is impossible.
Image: Courtesy of the National Women’s History Museum
Sojourner Truth
Sojourner Truth, a fearless civil rights leader, was an emancipated slave from New York who devoted her life to fighting for justice and equality. She spoke out against racial and gender oppression, as well as challenging the slave system and giving voice to the voiceless. Her powerful speeches, such as "Ain't I a Woman?", were stirring reminders of the strength of African American women in the face of adversity. Her words continue to inspire hope and courage amongst those faced with injustice today. Through her courage and determination, Sojourner Truth’s legacy is a reminder that the power of love and unity can make a lasting difference in our society.
These ladies were great and show us that any woman can be a hero and the next one to make history can be you, your sister, your mom, or your friend.