Biography
Sarah Mapps Douglass (1806-1882)! An educator, abolitionist, writer, and public lecturer, Douglass was born to active abolitionists. In 1831, Douglass helped found the Female Literary Association (FLA), a group of African American women dedicated to improving their skills and sense of community. She was one of the FLA’s leaders, and the FLA was the first social society specifically for African American women. She joined her mother as one of 18 founding members of the PA Female Anti-Slavery Society, a group of 60 Black and White women led by Lucretia Mott, in 1833. From 1853 to 1877, Douglass studied anatomy and female health along with medical basic training at the Female Medical College of PA and the Ladies’ Institute of PA Medical University, as their first African American female student. Also in 1853, Douglass became head of the girls’ preparatory department at the Philadelphia Institute for Colored Youth, which offered courses in literature, science and anatomy. We honor Douglass’s accomplishments and contributions to advancing the lives of African American women!
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HBD, Sarah Mapps Douglass (1806-1882)! Educator, abolitionist, suffragist, writer and painter; 1853-1877, renowned teacher and leader of African American schools; Leader in abolitionist, suffragist and literary organizations; central to founding Female Literary Association. HBD! pic.twitter.com/50jpk4biZm
— Suffrage100MA (@Suffrage100MA) September 9, 2021
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