Milca Mangnant- Changemaker blog

 I really enjoyed the change maker presentations. The main presentation that really stood out to me was Harriet Jacobs. I know it might be surprising but I've never heard about her story. I felt inspired hearing about her change making; knowing women like me have such impact on society and have such bravery. She was a huge advocate for ending slavery which is most important because without her help who knows how things would be today. It doesn't matter how big or small the effort was, its the impact that matters! I truly admire her bravery to stand up for what is right and we need people like her today, she was a big influence on the abolition movement and the reason why slavery was pushed to be put to an end.

Many people in her position may have felt silenced or powerless, but she chose to speak up, and that decision made a lasting difference. Without voices like hers, people may not have fully understood the true horrors of slavery.

One of the most impactful parts of her story is how she used writing as a tool for change. Her autobiography, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, gave readers a deeply personal look into what enslaved women went through. It highlighted not only the physical hardships but also the emotional and psychological struggles that are often overlooked. This was especially important because it brought attention to the experiences of women, which were not always fully represented in discussions about slavery. Her ability to turn her pain into something that could educate and influence others is something I deeply admire.

I also think it’s important to recognize the historical context of her work. Harriet Jacobs was part of the larger abolition movement, which played a major role in pushing society to confront the reality of slavery and eventually work toward ending it. While many individuals contributed to this movement, every voice mattered, including hers. Her bravery added momentum and helped shift perspectives, especially among people who may not have understood the full extent of slavery’s cruelty. This ultimately contributed to the growing pressure that led to the American Civil War and, eventually, the abolition of slavery.

Another reason I found her story so inspiring is because of her perseverance. She faced unimaginable challenges, including hiding for years just to gain her freedom. That level of determination is something that really stayed with me. It made me think about how often people today give up when things get difficult. Her life is a reminder that even in the hardest situations, it is possible to keep going and fight for something better. She didn’t let fear control her decisions, and that is something I think more people, including myself, can learn from.

I also connected with her story on a personal level. Seeing someone who shares similar identity traits as me being so impactful in history makes me feel like I, too, can make a difference in my own way. Representation matters, and learning about strong women like Harriet Jacobs helps build confidence and a sense of purpose. It reminds me that my voice matters and that I should not be afraid to use it.

In today’s world, we still need people like Harriet Jacobs—people who are willing to stand up against injustice, speak out, and advocate for change. While slavery may have been abolished, there are still many issues in society that require attention, such as inequality, discrimination, and injustice in different forms. Her legacy encourages us to not stay silent and to take action when we see something that is wrong. Even if the impact is not immediate, every effort contributes to progress.

Her story also highlights the importance of education and awareness. If people are not informed about issues, it is much harder to create change. By sharing her experiences, Harriet Jacobs educated others and opened their eyes to realities they may have ignored or misunderstood. This shows how powerful knowledge can be and why it is important to continue learning and spreading awareness about important topics.

Overall, Harriet Jacobs was a remarkable woman whose bravery and determination helped shape history. She was not only a survivor but also a change maker who used her voice to fight for justice. I truly admire her courage to stand up for what is right, even when it was dangerous to do so. Her influence on the abolition movement and her contribution to ending slavery make her an important figure that more people should know about.

This presentation left a lasting impression on me. It reminded me that change starts with individuals who are willing to take a stand. It encouraged me to think about how I can make a difference in my own life and community. Whether it is through speaking up, helping others, or simply being aware of what is happening around me, I now feel more motivated to be someone who contributes positively to society. Harriet Jacobs is a powerful example of how one person’s courage can inspire change, and her story is one that I will carry with me moving forward.