Sojourner Truth's given name was Isabella Baumfree, and she was born into slavery. Growing up she was sold three times and worked for four masters. The second being cruel and abusive, beat her on a daily basis. But at the age of twenty-nine she escaped to freedom from her last owner with her fourth infant child. Truth had to leave her other children behind because they were not legally freed in the state's emancipation order until they reached their twenties.
A year after the New York State Emancipation Act was approved, however, Truth learned that the son she left behind was illegally sold to an owner in Alabama. She took the issue to court and after several months was reunited with her son. It was the first time a black woman won a case against a white man.
After some life-changing religious experiences forty-six year old Truth became a Methodist and changed her name. On a mission, she started her journey through the states, speaking about the abolition of slavery and subsequently embracing women's suffrage. Whether she was accepted or not, Truth continued and established her reputation as an eloquent public speaker.
Sojourner Truth was not afraid to speak out and defend the rights of African-Americans and women, even though she was at a disadvantage. Truth's actions, writings, and lectures are proof on how tirelessly she fought against injustice during the 19th-century.
In 1850, Sojourner Truth bought her first home for $300. As a nationally known speaker she was able to pay off her mortgage with the earning of her autobiography, "The Narrative of Sojourner Truth: A Norther Slave."
"Real Heroines" is an ongoing project by 200 Billion Galaxies that compiles notable women from the past who cultivated their minds and overcame adversity by defying social conventions. Through this site we hope to inspire female empowerment within men, women, boys and girls, from the action of their predecessors, so we can all move beyond gender stereotypes and grow as people.
In our modern culture a heroine is considered to be a mythical goddess, flawless celebrity or animated princess. Commonly worshipped by her outward appearance, social status, and lady-like qualities. She becomes a fictional role model with unattainable qualities, and fuels gender stereotypes that misrepresent and harm. Teaching us that a girl's and women's self-worth is determined by their physical appearance, popularity, or material wealth.
Female objectification has also become ingrained in our society and even distorted as a form of empowerment. Over-exposure of such negative imagery and comments causes further harassment from both genders on the treatment of girls and women, commonly blocking their ability to navigate through the chaos and reach their true potential.
That is why we must redefine our understanding of a "heroine". View her as an individual who cultivates her mind. An individual that finds inner strength to overcome adversity and defy social conventions. An individual that is a real person — a real heroine.
Let's change the portrait of a heroine, and encourage a future of strong innovative thinkers and leaders!
Passionate about women's rights and the education for all. Associates smells with colors and tastes with places. Describes her designs best through sound effects.
Believes technical-based classes should be taught in schools. Makes obscure Star Trek: TNG and Jurassic Park references. Solves code conumdrums through his dreams.