The First National Female Anti-Slavery Society

The First National Female Anti-Slavery Society

Anti-Slavery Convention of American Women

In 1837 the Anti-Slavery Convention of American Women was held in New York City. This convention was groundbreaking in that it was one of the first times women had met and spoke publicly at this scale. There were representatives from New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maine, Connecticut, Ohio, and South Carolina. The convention included white and African American women. Just as with other anti-slavery conventions, delegates were chosen and specially invited to attend. The topic of race was once again an issue among the abolitionists. Many, specifically Angelina Grimke, wanted to ensure that African American women were attending. Grimke is quoted as saying, "It is all important that we begin right and I know no way as likely to destroy the cruel prejudices that exist as to bring our sisters in contact with those who shrink from such intercourse"

"Anti-Slavery Convention of American Women." Liberator [Boston, Massachusetts] 16 Mar. 1838: 43. 19th Century U.S.

Baumgartner, Kabria. 2017. “Building the Future.” Journal of the Early Republic 37 (1): 117–45. http://search.ebscohost.com.proxy1.cl.msu.edu/login.aspx?direct=true&db=31h&AN=121258266&site=ehost-live.

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