Black History Month, or African American History Month, is an annual celebration of African Americans and their contribution to American history. Celebrated in February, Black History Month was officially recognized by former President Gerald Ford in 1976. He called upon the public to “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” There are many bold African American women in our history.
Harriet Tubman was born into slavery, around 1815. At 22, she escaped. By 1860, she made between 13 and 19 missions to rescue approximately 340 enslaved people, family, and friends. She used the network of antislavery activists and safe houses known as the Underground Railroad.
Tubman’s religious faith was an essential resource as she repeatedly ventured into Maryland. She spoke of “consulting with God,” and she trusted that God would keep her safe. Abolitionist Thomas Garrett (1789-1871) said of her, “I never met with any person of any color who had more confidence in the voice of God, as spoken directly to her soul.”
This message is excerpted from “Honoring bold African American women for Black History Month” by Valora K. Starr from the February 4, 2021, blog of the Women of the ELCA.
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