The Grimke Sisters, born in 1792 and 1805 became known for their campaigning of women’s rights and abolition. Raised on a plantation in the South, they nevertheless developed a hatred of slavery after hearing Quakers (the Society of Friends) in Philadelphia speak out against the evils of slavery. In 1836 they wrote “Appeal to the Christian Women of the South”.


“I know you do not make the laws, but I also know that you are the wives and mothers, the sisters and daughters of those who do; and if you really suppose you can do nothing to overthrow slavery, you are greatly mistaken.”


This earned them the hatred of Southerners and censure from Northerners who felt that their views were too radical and their behavior not fit for women. As a member of the Society of Friends I am proud of their history of campaigning for human rights.