Gov. Hochul declares Nov. 26 ‘Sojourner Truth Day’ in New York

New York’s Staten Island. In celebration of the legacy of the Ulster County-born abolitionist and women’s rights leader, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed new legislation on Tuesday, November 26, and declared it to be Sojourner Truth Day in New York.

Born in the Hudson Valley in 1797, Sojourner Truth spent almost 28 years in slavery until breaking free in 1826. Because of her efforts during the Civil War, she was given the opportunity to meet President Abraham Lincoln in 1864.

According to Hochul, establishing an annual commemoration of Sojourner Truth’s legacy is a worthy homage to this New York-born legend, who was one of the greatest leaders in American history and dedicated her life to the battle for equality and freedom.

On August 26, 2020, the first statue of a real woman was unveiled in New York’s Central Park, honoring women’s rights pioneers Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Sojourner Truth. (Image by AFP/TIMOTHY A. CLARY) (Image courtesy of Getty Images/AFP/TIMOTHY A. CLARY)Getty Images via AFP

Long Island Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages remarked that observing November 26 as Sojourner Truth Day is a significant acknowledgement of her outstanding achievements to equality and justice.

Sojourner Truth spent the rest of her life traveling the country advocating for the abolition of slavery after becoming the first Black woman to successfully plead for her son’s freedom in a landmark trial held in the Ulster County Courthouse.

According to Hudson Valley Assemblywoman Sarahana Shrestha, her tenacity serves as a reminder that those who dedicate themselves to tearing down oppressive and unfair systems rarely do so because someone promised them it would be simple.

Hochul also opened Sojourner Truth State Park in 2022, the first new park since 2019. It has sweeping views of the Hudson River, historic industrial ruins, and mining artifacts. It is the first state park in Kingston, New York.

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