She Wanted to Be Free: Black Women’s Revolutionary Resistance

In the local area, a story of resistance is highlighted through the experience of Ona Judge, one of several enslaved individuals owned by George and Martha Washington. As the Washingtons prepared to return to their Virginia plantation, Ona Judge made plans to escape and live freely. Ona Judge was not alone in her desire for freedom, as many Black women in the area made it clear that they did not want to remain in bondage. Despite the risks, they found ways to resist their enslavers, including fleeing and slowing down work. Further details about Ona Judge and the experiences of Black women in the area are available from local sources, including Ms. Magazine, which explores their stories of resistance and struggle for freedom.