March 10th is the annual celebration of Harriet Tubman Day. For those unfamiliar with Harriet Tubman, she was a former slave who devoted herself to the relentless fight for the freedom of other slaves by aiding their escape from captivity. Tubman's legacy is commemorated across the United States, particularly in Maryland and New York—two states that held profound significance in her life.

Renowned for establishing the Underground Railroad, a network of safe houses utilized to assist slaves in their escape, Harriet Tubman left an indelible mark on history. Harriet Tubman Day serves as a moment to reflect on the heroic endeavors of this remarkable woman and to honor her legacy by actively combating racism wherever it is encountered.

History and Significance of Harriet Tubman Day

1. Creation of Harriet Tubman Day:

   • Harriet Tubman Day was officially recognized by the United States Congress in 1990. Public Law 101-252 designated March 10th, the anniversary of Tubman's death in 1913, as a national day to honor her contributions to American history.

2. Purpose:

   • The purpose of Harriet Tubman Day is to commemorate Tubman's extraordinary life and the impact she had on the fight for freedom and civil rights. The day serves as a reminder of her bravery, leadership, and dedication to the cause of justice and equality.

Who Was Harriet Tubman?

1. Early Life:

   • Harriet Tubman was born into slavery around 1822 in Dorchester County, Maryland. Her birth name was Araminta Ross, but she later adopted the name Harriet after her mother. Tubman endured the harsh realities of slavery from a young age, including physical violence and forced labor.

2. Escape from Slavery:

   • In 1849, Tubman escaped from slavery, fleeing to Philadelphia. Her successful escape marked the beginning of her lifelong commitment to helping others achieve freedom.

3. The Underground Railroad:

   • Tubman became one of the most famous "conductors" on the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses used to help enslaved African Americans escape to free states and Canada. Over the course of a decade, Tubman made approximately 13 missions to rescue around 70 enslaved people, including family members and friends. She became known as "Moses" for her leadership and success in leading others to freedom.

4. Civil War Contributions:

   • During the Civil War, Tubman served as a scout, spy, nurse, and cook for the Union Army. She played a crucial role in the Combahee River Raid in 1863, which led to the liberation of over 700 enslaved people in South Carolina.

5. Later Life and Advocacy:

   • After the Civil War, Tubman continued to advocate for civil rights, women's suffrage, and social justice. She established a home for elderly African Americans in Auburn, New York, where she lived until her death on March 10, 1913.

Legacy of Harriet Tubman

Harriet Tubman's legacy is profound and multifaceted, influencing generations of activists, leaders, and scholars. Some key aspects of her legacy include:

1. Symbol of Freedom:

   • Tubman is a symbol of freedom and resistance against oppression. Her courage and determination in the face of unimaginable danger have made her an enduring figure in American history.

2. Inspiration for the Civil Rights Movement:

   • Tubman's legacy has been a source of inspiration for the Civil Rights Movement and other social justice movements. Her life story demonstrates the power of individual action in the fight for collective liberation.

3. Cultural Impact:

   • Tubman's story has been the subject of numerous books, films, and documentaries, helping to keep her memory alive in popular culture. She is celebrated not only as a historical figure but also as a symbol of resilience and the fight for justice.

4. Honors and Memorials:

   • Tubman has been honored in various ways, including the establishment of the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park in Auburn, New York, and the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park in Maryland. Additionally, there have been ongoing efforts to feature her image on U.S. currency.

How to Observe Harriet Tubman Day

There are many meaningful ways to observe Harriet Tubman Day and honor her legacy:

1. Learn About Her Life:

   • Take time to learn more about Harriet Tubman's life and contributions. There are numerous biographies, documentaries, and historical accounts that provide insight into her extraordinary achievements.

2. Visit Historical Sites:

   • If possible, visit historical sites related to Tubman's life, such as the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park in Maryland or the Harriet Tubman Home in Auburn, New York. These sites offer a deeper understanding of her legacy and the broader context of the fight for freedom.

3. Support Social Justice Causes:

   • Honor Tubman's legacy by supporting organizations and causes that work toward social justice, civil rights, and the fight against modern-day slavery and human trafficking.

4. Participate in Educational Events:

   • Attend or organize educational events, such as lectures, discussions, or film screenings, focused on Tubman's life and the history of the Underground Railroad. These events can help raise awareness and inspire action.

5. Reflect on Freedom and Justice:

   • Use Harriet Tubman Day as an opportunity to reflect on the concepts of freedom, justice, and equality. Consider how Tubman's legacy can inform contemporary struggles for human rights.

6. Share Her Story:

   • Share Tubman's story with others, especially younger generations. Teaching children and young adults about her life can help ensure that her legacy continues to inspire future generations.

Fun Facts About Harriet Tubman

• Notable Nickname: Tubman was often referred to as "Moses" by those she helped to freedom because of her leadership and success in leading others out of bondage, similar to the biblical figure Moses.

• Bounty on Her Head: At the height of her Underground Railroad activities, a bounty was placed on Tubman's head by slaveholders. Despite the danger, she was never captured and continued her work.

• First Woman to Lead an Armed Raid: Harriet Tubman is credited as the first woman to lead an armed military raid. The Combahee River Raid, which she led, freed over 700 enslaved people and was a significant victory for the Union.

• Disabilities: Tubman suffered from a lifelong disability due to a head injury she sustained as a child when an overseer threw a heavy metal weight at another enslaved person, but it struck her instead. The injury caused severe headaches and narcolepsy but did not stop her from carrying out her missions.

• Legacy in Currency: There has been a proposal to feature Harriet Tubman on the $20 bill, replacing Andrew Jackson. This proposal has received widespread support and would mark a significant recognition of her contributions to American history.

Conclusion

Harriet Tubman Day is a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of one of America's greatest heroes. By observing this day, we honor Tubman's unwavering commitment to freedom, justice, and human dignity. Her legacy continues to inspire the ongoing struggle for equality and serves as a testament to the power of courage and determination in the face of adversity. Whether through education, reflection, or action, Harriet Tubman Day offers an opportunity to celebrate the life of a woman who changed the course of history.