As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, the SGE team would like to highlight some of our favorite ‘Women Warriors’ who have fought, clawed, and jumped through hurdles to make progressive strides for Black women. It is important we continue to speak out against injustice and be protective over one another. We’ll continue to stand together in solidarity and uplift all of our sisters.
Harriet Tubman (1830-1920)
Fearless, smart, and determined are just a few words of many that could describe Harriet Tubman. She was truly a pioneer of her time with all her efforts put forth to free slaves during the 1800’s. Tubman took dangerous trips from the south to the north avoiding slave patrols, crossing waters, hiding in weeds, and pulling out her gun when it was necessary. She never lost a slave through all the trips she took. One of Tubman’s most famous quotes was, “I freed a thousand slaves. I could have freed a thousand more if only they knew they were slaves.”
Madam CJ Walker (1867-1919)
We have so many women entrepreneurs today who are dominating the market, but let’s give credit where credit is due. Madam CJ Walker was one of the earlier embodiments of black girl magic. From living on a plantation with parents who were slaves, to becoming the first black female millionaire is such an incredible example of dedication and discipline we all should aspire to have. “America doesn’t respect anything but money. What our people need is a few millionaires.” - Madam CJ Walker
Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin (1842-1924)
She was a forced to be reckoned with during such critical times for Black women. Not only were Black folks up against the horrible affects of Jim Crow laws but white women were fighting for the right to vote. Both of the movements wanted support from Black women but neither wanted make sure Black women benefited from the outcome. With all this occurring in America, the National Association of Colored Women was formed where Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin served as second Vice President. They set out to fight for all women’s rights and publicize the inhumane lynching of Black people.