Every year on March 10, the United States celebrates Harriet Tubman Day to honor the life and legacy of one of the most courageous figures in American history.
If you’ve ever heard of the Underground Railroad, you likely know about Harriet Tubman—an enslaved woman who risked everything to free herself and then returned time and time again to lead others to freedom.
The History of Harriet Tubman Day
Harriet Tubman Day was officially recognized as a national holiday in 1990 when Congress passed legislation to commemorate her contributions to the abolition of slavery.
President George H.W. Bush proclaimed March 10 as a day of remembrance, a date chosen because Tubman passed away on March 10, 1913.
Who Was Harriet Tubman?
Born sometime between 1820 and 1822 in Dorchester County, Maryland, Tubman’s early life was marked by hardship and brutality.
Originally named Araminta “Minty” Ross, she later adopted the name Harriet Tubman after her marriage.
Despite enduring the horrors of slavery, Tubman’s spirit remained unbroken. She resisted in any way she could—running away, fighting back, and wearing extra layers to soften the blows of whippings.
In 1849, Tubman escaped slavery, but she didn’t stop there. Instead of living in safety, she risked her life over and over, making at least 13 trips back to the South to guide approximately 70 enslaved people to freedom through the Underground Railroad—a secret network of safe houses and escape routes. Notably, she never lost a single person on these journeys.
Why Does Harriet Tubman Day Matter?
Harriet Tubman was more than just a conductor on the Underground Railroad. She was also a spy, nurse, and scout for the Union Army during the Civil War. After the war, she became a lifelong advocate for civil rights and women’s suffrage.
Harriet Tubman Day is a reminder of her fearlessness, selflessness, and commitment to justice. It’s not just about remembering her heroic past—it’s about carrying forward her fight against racism, oppression, and injustice in today’s world.
How Can You Honor Harriet Tubman’s Legacy?
- Educate yourself and others about her life and impact.
- Visit historical sites like the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center in Maryland or the Harriet Tubman Home in New York.
- Support racial justice initiatives and stand against discrimination in your community.
Harriet Tubman once said:
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer.”
Her dream was freedom—not just for herself, but for all enslaved people. This Harriet Tubman Day, let’s keep that dream alive.
