Black History
Harriet Jacobs: A Beacon of Resistance Against the Darkness of Slavery
Within the fabric of American history, certain narratives rise above the rest, illuminating the darkest corners of our past while shedding light on the indomitable spirit of humanity. Among these luminous stories stands the remarkable tale of Harriet Jacobs, a woman whose life’s journey from bondage to freedom remains an enduring testament to the power of resilience and unwavering determination.

By Tamara Shiloh
Within the fabric of American history, certain narratives rise above the rest, illuminating the darkest corners of our past while shedding light on the indomitable spirit of humanity.
Among these luminous stories stands the remarkable tale of Harriet Jacobs, a woman whose life’s journey from bondage to freedom remains an enduring testament to the power of resilience and unwavering determination.
Born into slavery in Edenton, N.C., in 1813, Jacobs was destined to confront the harsh realities of an institution that dehumanized and oppressed millions. Her autobiography, “Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl,” transcends mere words on paper, offering an intimate window into her world and the injustices she endured.
From her earliest years, Jacobs navigated a labyrinth of pain and injustice. Separated from her parents and raised under the watchful eye of a relatively compassionate mistress, she was afforded a rare opportunity: an education. For an enslaved person, the ability to read and write was not only a forbidden skill but also a potential lifeline to liberation. Harriet seized this opportunity, laying the foundation for her later acts of defiance.
Yet, her fate took a darker turn when Dr. James Norcom, her owner, turned into a tormentor. His relentless advances and threats forced Harriet to make a harrowing decision. In a remarkable act of courage, she chose to disappear into the confines of a small attic crawlspace for nearly seven years. In this stifling and claustrophobic hiding place, she documented her experiences, using her newfound literary skills to pen her life story.
Jacobs’ narrative stands apart because it exposes not only the brutality of slavery but also the unique suffering endured by enslaved women. Her account sheds light on the pervasive sexual exploitation they faced, and the unimaginable challenges confronted by enslaved mothers who sought to protect their children from the same fate. Through her words, she unmasked the vulnerabilities and resilience of enslaved women.
Jacobs eventually found her way to freedom in the North, but her battle was far from over. She transitioned from enslaved woman to abolitionist, standing shoulder to shoulder with prominent figures such as Frederick Douglass and Harriet Beecher Stowe. Her tireless efforts included lecturing, penning articles, and raising funds to support the abolitionist cause.
The legacy of Harriet Jacobs endures as a vital part of American history and the ongoing fight for racial justice. Her autobiography continues to resonate today, offering an unvarnished perspective on the horrors of slavery and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
In the end, Harriet Jacobs’ life is a testament to unwavering courage, an unbroken spirit that defied the chains of oppression. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that, even in the darkest of times, the human spirit can transcend adversity. Harriet Jacobs, a true American hero, blazed a trail toward freedom and justice that still guides us today, challenging us to confront the injustices of the past and work toward a more equitable future.
Activism
Oakland Post: Week of May 21 – 27, 2025
The printed Weekly Edition of the Oakland Post: Week of May 21 – 27, 2025

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Activism
OPINION: Your Voice and Vote Impact the Quality of Your Health Care
One of the most dangerous developments we’re seeing now? Deep federal cuts are being proposed to Medicaid, the life-saving health insurance program that covers nearly 80 million lower-income individuals nationwide. That is approximately 15 million Californians and about 1 million of the state’s nearly 3 million Black Californians who are at risk of losing their healthcare.

By Rhonda M. Smith, Special to California Black Media Partners
Shortly after last year’s election, I hopped into a Lyft and struck up a conversation with the driver. As we talked, the topic inevitably turned to politics. He confidently told me that he didn’t vote — not because he supported Donald Trump, but because he didn’t like Kamala Harris’ résumé. When I asked what exactly he didn’t like, he couldn’t specifically articulate his dislike or point to anything specific. In his words, he “just didn’t like her résumé.”
That moment really hit hard for me. As a Black woman, I’ve lived through enough election cycles to recognize how often uncertainty, misinformation, or political apathy keep people from voting, especially Black voters whose voices are historically left out of the conversation and whose health, economic security, and opportunities are directly impacted by the individual elected to office, and the legislative branches and political parties that push forth their agenda.
That conversation with the Lyft driver reflects a troubling surge in fear-driven politics across our country. We’ve seen White House executive orders gut federal programs meant to help our most vulnerable populations and policies that systematically exclude or harm Black and underserved communities.
One of the most dangerous developments we’re seeing now? Deep federal cuts are being proposed to Medicaid, the life-saving health insurance program that covers nearly 80 million lower-income individuals nationwide. That is approximately 15 million Californians and about 1 million of the state’s nearly 3 million Black Californians who are at risk of losing their healthcare.
Medicaid, called Medi-Cal in California, doesn’t just cover care. It protects individuals and families from medical debt, keeps rural hospitals open, creates jobs, and helps our communities thrive. Simply put; Medicaid is a lifeline for 1 in 5 Black Americans. For many, it’s the only thing standing between them and a medical emergency they can’t afford, especially with the skyrocketing costs of health care. The proposed cuts mean up to 7.2 million Black Americans could lose their healthcare coverage, making it harder for them to receive timely, life-saving care. Cuts to Medicaid would also result in fewer prenatal visits, delayed cancer screenings, unfilled prescriptions, and closures of community clinics. When healthcare is inaccessible or unaffordable, it doesn’t just harm individuals, it weakens entire communities and widens inequities.
The reality is Black Americans already face disproportionately higher rates of poorer health outcomes. Our life expectancy is nearly five years shorter in comparison to White Americans. Black pregnant people are 3.6 times more likely to die during pregnancy or postpartum than their white counterparts.
These policies don’t happen in a vacuum. They are determined by who holds power and who shows up to vote. Showing up amplifies our voices. Taking action and exercising our right to vote is how we express our power.
I urge you to start today. Call your representatives, on both sides of the aisle, and demand they protect Medicaid (Medi-Cal), the Affordable Care Act (Covered CA), and access to food assistance programs, maternal health resources, mental health services, and protect our basic freedoms and human rights. Stay informed, talk to your neighbors and register to vote.
About the Author
Rhonda M. Smith is the Executive Director of the California Black Health Network, a statewide nonprofit dedicated to advancing health equity for all Black Californians.
Activism
IN MEMORIAM: Nate Holden, State Senator and Longtime Los Angeles Councilmember, Dies at 95
Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn described Holden as “a lion” in the State Senate and a force to be reckoned with on the Los Angeles City Council.” Hahn added that she learned a lot working with Holden when she was a new councilmember.

By Bo Tefu, California Black Media
Former Los Angeles City Councilmember Nathaniel “Nate” Holden, a prominent figure in the city’s politics, passed away at the age of 95, his family confirmed on May 7.
Holden, who represented South Los Angeles for 16 years on the City Council and served one term in the California State Senate, was widely regarded as a forceful advocate for his community.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn described Holden as “a lion” in the State Senate and a force to be reckoned with on the Los Angeles City Council.”
Hahn added that she learned a lot working with Holden when she was a new councilmember.
Holden’s journey to political prominence began in the segregated South, where he was born in Macon, Georgia, in 1929. He often recalled the childhood moment when he first heard the governor of Georgia vowing to continue suppressing Black people.
“Doing the best you can for the people. Law and order. Make sure that people’s communities are safe. I did it all,” said Holden, reflecting on his legacy.
Holden is survived by his sons, including former California Assemblymember Chris Holden, who represented a district in Southern California that includes Pasadena and Altadena in Los Angeles County and cities in San Bernardino County.
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