What's in a Name?

What’s in a name?

Isabella Bomfree was born a slave in Ulster County, New York in 1797. Bought and sold four times, subjected to tortuous labor and cruel punishments, she ran away with one of her children to an abolitionist family who bought her freedom for 20 dollars. That family would later help her successfully sue for the return of another son who was illegally sold into slavery – a victory unheard of at the time.

So began the life of Sojourner Truth. A new identity chosen to honor her life’s calling to preach the truth, Sojourner Truth became a charismatic minister and speaker on the evils of slavery, despite never learning to read or write.

A towering figure in both size and speech, Truth stood tall at nearly six feet to deliver her thundering “Ain’t I a Woman” speech at the Women’s Rights Convention in 1851. In the speech, Truth fought back against preconceived notions on gender and race.

“…That man over there says that women need to be helped into carriages, and lifted over ditches, and to have the best place everywhere. Nobody ever helps me into carriages, or over mud-puddles, or gives me any best place! And ain’t I a woman? Look at me! Look at my arm! I have ploughed and planted, and gathered into barns, and no man could head me! And ain’t I a woman? I could work as much and eat as much as a man – when I could get it – and bear the lash as well! And ain’t I a woman? I have borne thirteen children, and seen most all sold off to slavery, and when I cried out with my mother’s grief, none but Jesus heard me! And ain’t I a woman?...”

Soon after, Truth made a home in Battle Creek, Michigan near three of her daughters. She continued speaking across the country and organized supplies for black troops in the Civil War. She went on to support many causes, including prison reform, property rights, and universal suffrage. After the war, Truth received a rare invitation to the White House. While in the nation’s capital, she found interest in the Freedmen’s Bureau, helping freed slaves find jobs.

A child once sold at an auction with a flock of sheep for $100, Sojourner Truth became a woman who spoke to the nation, kept company with the likes of Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony, and authored of one of the most famous speeches in American history.

Isabella Bomfree may not have been born free, but Sojourner Truth spent her life opening the eyes and hearts of a nation with her strength, determination, and, yes, her truth. She died at her home on November 26, 1883. It would be another 36 years before women had the right to vote, another 81 before the end of segregation, and another 132 before the opening of the Sojourner Family Peace Center.

So, what’s in a name? At Sojourner Family Peace Center, all are welcome and equal. People of every race, gender expression, and identity can know when they walk through the doors, someone is on their side. Someone is fighting for them.

Thank you, Isabella Bomfree. Thank you Sojourner Truth. Our world and our work are better because of you.