Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce – Women’s History Month
“The Connection” Newsletter
Dean Senfronia Thompson’s Response to: “Who are the women in history who have most influenced you?”
All progress comes with sacrifice, timing, courage, faith, and choices. Long before I was awarded the National Sojourner Truth Meritorious Service Award, Sojourner Truth and Harriet Tubman’s faith, tenacity, and unequivocal fight for truth and freedom inspired me to continue their legacy of advocacy as a young activist and as the longest-serving woman and African-American in Texas history. Despite the traumatic experiences and obstacles Truth and Tubman regularly faced, their overwhelming hope for a better future has helped preserve the determination of women across the globe to continue inspiring change for generations.
As a college student at Texas Southern University, I participated in lunch counter strikes at Madding’s Drug Store, fighting for the end of segregation and for our right to be served like everyone else. And during my tenure in the Legislature, I’ve fought for women’s rights, equal rights, voting rights, for the elderly, children, and a fair criminal justice system.
I am humbled to have used my platform as a State Representative to fight for the most vulnerable and marginalized in the State of Texas for nearly 50 years. Despite my accomplishments, the fight for justice and equality has never been easy. Much like Truth and Tubman, I’ve relied on my faith and God’s protection to help me maintain the strength to continue serving His people.
In honor of Women’s History Month, join me in celebrating every woman on a journey to create a better world for generations to come.