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An Introduction to Ida B. Wells from Her Great-Granddaughter

My great-grandmother Ida Bell Wells-Barnett (aka Ida B. Wells) spent almost fifty years of her life fighting for equality and justice during a period of history that spanned from the Civil War to the Great Depression. Through the writing of articles and pamphlets, plus delivering hundreds of speeches across the United States and the United Kingdom, she chronicled in great detail the atrocities and frequency of lynching that were used to terrorize the African American community. She co-founded and worked with several civil rights organizations that focused on both racial, gender, and economic equity. Not only did she work with some of the most well-known leaders of her time, but also interacted with the less fortunate on a personal level. She visited prisoners, worked as a probation officer, and created housing for Southern migrants.

Regardless of the personal sacrifice that was involved in her work, she was focused on fighting for the betterment of a country even though, as an African American and a woman, she faced discrimination on multiple fronts. She lived through some of the more violent and lawless times in American history. She put herself in dangerous situations in order to investigate the details of devastating riots. And because of her revealing the truth, calling out exact names of people, and encouraging disenfranchised people to fight back against the establishment, her own life was threatened. Despite the danger, criticism, and marginalization she faced, she somehow drew on a higher power and an inner strength to keep going—many times alone.

As our country experiences efforts to divide and oppress people based on race, religion, gender, or economic class, the life and legacy of Ida B. Wells can be a guide and inspiration for those who are committed to equality and justice. Passionate for Justice: Ida B. Wells as Prophet for Our Time will help people reflect on her principles, struggles, and unwavering commitment to speaking truth to power. Reflecting on the past and drawing on the life experiences of an incredible fighter for justice can bring needed strength and inspiration to current and future leaders who do work to help this country live up to its true potential where there is truly life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all.

—Michelle Duster

author, speaker, educator

great-granddaughter of Ida B. Wells