Mary Ann Shadd Cary was born on October 9, 1823, and was an influential educator, lawyer, and abolitionist who fought for justice and equality throughout her lifetime. She helped establish schools to uplift Black youth in multiple cities throughout the United States and spent time teaching in West Chester and Norristown, Pennsylvania. In 1853, Shadd Cary became the first Black female newspaper publisher in North America when she founded The Provincial Freeman, which encouraged Black Americans to insist on equal treatment and for slaves to seek freedom.  

 

My resolution would recognize the day of October 9, 2025, as “Mary Ann Shadd Cary Day” in our Commonwealth. Shadd Cary’s calls for action and influence on Black equality and women’s suffrage continue to impact our society more than 130 years after her death. Through her lifetime, Shadd Cary fought passionately for these causes, having once said, “it is better to wear out, than to rust out.” By recognizing this day on the anniversary of her birth, we can honor the life and accomplishments of Mary Ann Shadd Cary.  

 

Please consider co-sponsoring this resolution to honor the important works of Mary Ann Shadd Cary and her impact on Pennsylvania.