Sophie had to read a biography for her book report this month. One of the few children's biographies we had on hand was about Sojourner Truth, the 19th century abolitionist and women's rights advocate. To spare myself a trip to the library that night, I encouraged her to read it. We read a couple of chapters together and talked a little about how unjust slavery is, how blessed we are to be free and about the importance of speaking up when things are wrong.
For her presentation, Sophie had to dress up as Sojourner and talk about her life in the first person. She was so excited with her simple costume. She came home pumped up about how well she did. 'Atta girl!
This YouTube video is of Alfre Woodard giving Sojourner's famous "Ain't I a Woman" speech, which was an oft-quoted and influential speech of the Woman's Suffrage movement.
I always cry when I read or hear about how her children were taken from her and sold into slavery . She said in the "Ain't I a Woman" speech: "When I cried out in my mother's grief none but Jesus heard me." I take so much for granted, but I am grateful for women like Sojourner Truth, and glad that Sophie got to read about a strong, spunky, amazing woman this month.
What a great post...and reminder on how thankful we should be.
ReplyDeleteSooo glad you stopped by my blog to leave a comment, and I positively can't believe all the stuff we have in common. Too bad your sister moved, I could have at least maybe been non-virtual friends with her... But, I'm happy with my virtual blogger friend in you!!! :)
Thank you so much for posting that speech. I really enjoyed listening to it. Well, perhaps enjoyed is not the right word. I found it moving and challenging. I SO admire the women that fought to give us the rights we take for granted today.
ReplyDeleteI'm so pleased that your daughter enjoyed learning about them too.
Sarahx
I bet Sophie did a great job with her presentation. This is the way history should be taught: not a bunch of dates and vague information, but through the real words of real people.
ReplyDeleteOh, how touching! I love being an American, but I think our kids are so accustomed to "having it good" that it's hard for them to understand that it hasn't always been this way and that people in other countries still struggle against injustice. Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteYou know, I had to come back and leave another comment to let you know that this speech has really been on my mind since I heard it on your blog. Our lives are so full of comfort and loveliness almost all the time. I can't even begin to imagine what it must be like to have your children sold into slavery. So heartbreakingly sad.
ReplyDeleteI wanted to come back and thank you once agian for posting it.
Sarahx