April 22, 2022
Volume 1, Issue 1
Harriet Tubman Turns 200!!!
March marked 200 years since the birth of Harriet Tubman. All across the world, there will be activities to commemorate the life and legacy of a profound leader. Tubman’s heroism is a testament to her courage and determination that has inspired generations and empowering women.
There was a memorial service at AME Zion Church in Auburn, NY, with songs, scriptures, and tributes to kick off the celebration. Speakers such as finance expert and social commentator Dr. Boyce Watkins, re-enactor Rev. Maggie Moore Holley, and spoken word from Rev. Dennis D. Porter of North Eastern Episcopal District AME Zion Church. A short film Harriet Tubman: Harriet Tubman: The Past, A Hero of All Ages, was narrated by Rev. Paul Gordon Carter, Resident Manager at the Harriet Tubman House. Dr. Nia Nunn, Educator, and Community Leader read a poem, “Harriet Tubman,” from the book Honey, I Love and Other Love Poems.”
Harriet Tubman didn’t take no stuff
Wasn’t scared of nothing neither
Didn’t come in this world to be no slave
And wasn’t going to stay one either
Vanessa Garrison – Co-Founder and COO – GirlTrek, spoke about her mission of founding the organization to get women and young girls to be healthy. In 2013, GirlTrek launched “We Are Harriet.” This past March, GirlTrek honored Harriet Tubman’s 200th birthday by walking 2.22 miles for freedom and healing black women around the world.
Michelle Jones Galvin, the great-great grandniece of Harriet Tubman, talked about the amazing woman behind the icon and what people might not know about Harriet Tubman, such as she was the founder of the National Association of Colored Women’s Club. “Harriet Tubman was an ordinary woman who did extraordinary things. She was defined by her self-sacrifice, compassion, service to others, and courage,” says Galvin.
