BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — Two Michigan senators are hoping to honor Sojourner Truth, who fought for women's rights and abolition in the nineteenth century.
Sen. Gary Peters and Sen. Debbie Stabenow introduced the bill, which would name the post office at 90 McCamly Street South as the "Sojourner Truth Post Office."
Truth was born into slavery in New York in 1797 as Isabella Baumfree. She later escaped slavery in 1827 and changed her name to Sojourner Truth.
She began to advocate for emancipation and women's suffrage before finally settling in 1857 in Harmonia, Michigan, which was later incorporated into Battle Creek. She died in 1883.
“Sojourner Truth’s dedication to fighting injustices not only changed our world for the better, but is still benefiting our nation today,” said Peters. “As Black History Month comes to a close, designating this post office in Battle Creek after this American abolitionist and activist will allow Michiganders to honor and continue her inspiring legacy as a champion for equality.”
“Sojourner Truth escaped slavery and went on to help African Americans transition into a free life after the Civil War," said Stabenow. "She dedicated her life to women’s rights, racial equality and social justice. She chose what is now Battle Creek as her home in the later years of her life. Naming the Battle Creek Post Office after her is a fitting honor for the incredible life she lived."
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