Frances E. W. Harper, “We Are All Bound Up Together” (10 May 1866)

Authors

Garth Pauley, Calvin UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Voice of Democracy

Abstract

Frances Harper’s address at the 1866 National Woman’s Rights Convention was a visionary speech on civil rights, citizenship, and civic identity. In it, Harper skillfully negotiated the context of nineteenth-century reform politics while remaining true to her vision. The message of her speech was grounded in both her experience as a Black woman and her theological convictions. A close reading of the speech shows that key elements—including its signature line—have been misunderstood and unappreciated.

First Page

13

Last Page

32

Publication Date

2025

Comments

Voices of Democracy: The U.S. Oratory Project can be found at https://voicesofdemocracy.umd.edu/

Recommended Citation

Pauley, Garth, "Frances E. W. Harper, “We Are All Bound Up Together” (10 May 1866)" (2025). University Faculty Publications and Creative Works. 951.
https://digitalcommons.calvin.edu/calvin_facultypubs/951