Ophelia Clenlans facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ophelia Clenlans
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Ophelia Clenlans in 1901
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| Born | c. 1841 Platte County, Missouri, U. S.
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| Died | February 12, 1907 (aged 65–66) Omaha, Nebraska, United States
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| Occupation | Journalist |
| Spouse(s) | Emanuel S. Clenlans |
Ophelia Clenlans (born around 1841 – died February 12, 1907) was an important civil rights activist and journalist. She lived in Omaha, Nebraska, and worked hard to make sure everyone was treated fairly, no matter their race.
Who Was Ophelia Clenlans?
Ophelia Clenlans was born into slavery in Platte County, Missouri, around 1841. She later moved to Omaha. She married Emanuel S. Clenlans, and they had a daughter named Laura.
Working for Change
Ophelia Clenlans was a strong leader in her community. In 1896, she joined the executive board of the National Federation of Afro-American Women. This was a big group that worked to improve life for African American women.
She was also a key member of the Omaha Colored Women's Club, led by Ella Mahammitt. These clubs helped women learn, grow, and support each other. Ophelia also helped start other women's clubs in Omaha. She was involved in religious groups too, like the Ruth Corps, and was an officer in the Order of the Eastern Star.
A Voice for Equality
Ophelia Clenlans was not afraid to speak up for what was right. She wrote articles in the Omaha World-Herald newspaper. In 1901, she wrote about whether black women should be allowed to join white Women's Clubs.
She explained that she remembered the days of slavery. She felt thankful for help from white women. But she also wanted everyone to understand that black women wanted to learn and help themselves and their families.
Ophelia also wrote about love and equality. She believed that love was a natural feeling that people could not control. She argued that everyone deserved to be treated as equals, especially in their minds and ideas. She felt that intellectual equality was a right for all.
Later Life and Legacy
Ophelia Clenlans passed away on February 12, 1907. She died from cancer and pneumonia. Her funeral was held at the St. John's AME Church. She was buried at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Omaha. Ophelia Clenlans is remembered for her courage and her fight for civil rights.
