Truth And Justice: Fundraiser At Lakewood Park For The Sojourner Truth Project- Akron

Sojourner Truth is rightly celebrated for her efforts advocating votes for women as well as racial equality. In 1851 her surprise appearance at the Ohio Women's Rights Convention in Akron was memorable for her fierce insistence that women of color be included in the suffrage movement. The Sojourner Truth Project is dedicated to installing a statue of Sojourner in Akron, the site of her historic "Ain't I a Woman?" speech. It is planned as the highlight of a community plaza, standing in tribute to the 19th century activist's achievements and as a reminder of the work still needed to ensure all women are included in the fight for equity.

Together with civic organizations such as Akron's United Way, Akron Community Foundation, Summit Metro Parks and others, including local artist Woodrow Nash, the committee is raising funds to realize this dream. As the project evolved, a target of $1.5 million was set; the effort is halfway to that goal.

Lake Erie Women's Huddle (LEWH) and Windsong, Cleveland's Feminist Chorus, are proud to co-sponsor a summer fundraising event in support of this worthy Northeast Ohio project. We invite you to join us at Lakewood Park's Kiwanis Pavilion on Saturday, July 9 (1-3 PM) to learn more about Sojourner Truth, meet members of the steering committee, hear uplifting musical selections from Windsong and be inspired by special guest Sojourner Truth as portrayed by reenactor Inez James. Come enjoy fellowship in the fresh air and know that you are supporting recognition of this great woman by making a freewill contribution to the cause (amounts of any size are welcome and all donations to the statue fund are tax-deductible).

For more Information contact Judy Benson at 216-401-4846 or visit our Facebook Event Page

Judy Benson is a retired school teacher living on Lakewood's Gold Coast and enjoying the view.