Governor Kathy Hochul on Tuesday signed legislation to establish November 26th as Sojourner Truth Day in the State of New York, named in honor of the legendary abolitionist and women’s rights advocate who was born in Ulster County.
“Sojourner Truth was one of the greatest leaders in American history, dedicating her life to the fight for freedom and equality,” Governor Hochul said. “Establishing an annual commemoration of Sojourner Truth’s legacy is a fitting tribute to this New York-born icon.”
Sojourner Truth was born in the Hudson Valley in 1797 and was enslaved in New York until she escaped in 1826. In historic proceedings at the Ulster County Courthouse, Sojourner Truth became the first Black woman to successfully sue for her son’s emancipation from slavery. Sojourner Truth spent the rest of her life traveling the country fighting for the abolition of slavery.
In 2022, Governor Hochul announced the creation of Sojourner Truth State Park in Ulster County, the the first new State Park to open since 2019.
State Senator Lea Webb said, “I am proud that we have established November 26th as Sojourner Truth Day in the State of New York, a day to marry our state’s rich history with our commitment to justice and equality. Sojourner Truth is a trailblazing Black woman whose life story continues to serve as a beacon of hope and resilience for every resident in the State of New York. She made numerous and valuable contributions to the continued struggle for women’s and civil rights. Her voice, powerful and unyielding, challenged the status quo and inspired countless others to envision and work for a world where freedom and equality are not merely ideals, but realities for all. I want to thank my colleague, Senator Hinchey for sponsoring this legislation and Governor Hochul for signing this important legislation into law. It is imperative, especially now, that we continue to champion the rights and dignity of every individual.”
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