Sojourner Truth

United States · c. 1797–1883

Born into slavery in New York, Truth became an abolitionist and advocate for women’s rights. Her public speaking challenged the separation of racial justice from arguments about women’s political and social position.

Her famous 1851 speech survives in different transcriptions. The quote here uses the contemporary Robinson report rather than treating the later, widely circulated version as an exact recording of her voice.

“I am a woman’s rights.”

Akron address (1851), as transcribed by Marius Robinson; original phrasing.

Read the quotation source

Keep reading

Biographical overview & further references

Short original introduction by GYNĒMA · Source review: 7 October 2026. The quote is an excerpt, not a summary of her entire outlook.

Suggest a correction or a primary source

ANOTHER LIFE, ANOTHER PERSPECTIVEHarriet Tubman

IN CONVERSATION

Leave a thoughtful note.

Reviewed before publication

Share a reflection or a useful source. Please leave out identifying details, accusations against private individuals, harassment and graphic descriptions.

Loading comments…

Not monitored continuously. For urgent help: Find support.