Two new naval ships were named today after two important women in history: suffragist Lucy Stone and abolitionist/women’s rights activist Sojourner Truth. This unusual gathering was held at the BPL on Sept. 19 as members of the Boston Women’s Heritage Trail, the Mayor’s Office of Women’s Advancement, the Women’s Suffrage Celebration Coalition, BPL staff, & other members of the community gathered for the program. An honor guard marched in accompanied by a US Navy band. The Secretary of the Navy, Ray Mabus, spoke about his choices and about the gender equity measures being taken in the Navy such as a single uniform for both men and women. Long time advocate for women and children, Marian Wright Edelman, the sponsor of the Sojourner Truth vessel, also spoke, saying “stand up and fight back” and we must deal with “deep-seated impediments.” The ships will be used for replenishment of other naval vessels, a fitting tribute.

BWHT Board Members Linda Stern, Michelle Jenney and Marie Turley
with Ray Mabus