Harriet C. Johnson facts for kids

Harriet C. Johnson (1845-1907) was an important African-American woman who worked as an educator and fought for women's right to vote. People who support the right to vote for all citizens are called suffragists.

Harriet C. Johnson's Life Story

Early Life and Education

Harriet C. Johnson was born in December 1845 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She went to school at the Institute for Colored Youth in Philadelphia. This school was very important for Black students at the time. Harriet graduated from the Institute in 1864.

A Career in Education

After finishing school, Harriet became a teacher. She started as the principal of the infant department at the Philadelphia Association of Friends for the Instruction of Poor Children. This means she was in charge of teaching very young children.

In 1868, she moved to Avery College in Pittsburgh. There, she became the principal of the preparatory and ladies' departments. This was a big role, showing her skills as a leader in education. At Avery College, the president was Henry Highland Garnet. He was a leader who believed in black nationalism. This idea focused on Black people creating their own strong communities and having control over their own lives. It's possible that his ideas encouraged Harriet in her own fight for rights.

Standing Up for Women's Rights

Around 1870, Harriet Johnson attended a big meeting called the National Convention of the Colored Men of America (NCCMA). This meeting was held in Washington, D.C. What made her presence special was that she was the only woman delegate there. A delegate is someone chosen to represent a group of people.

Her being there caused a big discussion. Some people at the meeting thought it should only be for men. But others argued that stopping Harriet from joining because she was a woman was wrong. They said it was like how African-American men were sometimes stopped from participating in government just because of their race. In the end, the people who supported her won. Harriet kept her seat as the delegate from Allegheny City, showing her strength and determination.

Later Life

In 1870, Harriet Johnson married Frederick J. Loudin. He was a talented musician and a member of the famous Fisk Jubilee Singers. He also led his own group, the Loudin Jubilee Singers.

Harriet C. Johnson passed away on November 11, 1907. She is remembered for her work in education and her courage in fighting for equal rights for women.