Harriet Tubman committed her life to the cause of liberation and fought a never-ending battle against slavery. Tubman not only saved herself from slavery but she saved other slaves through the Underground Railroad. Millions of Americans and others worldwide find inspiration in her, and her legacy should be honored. While celebrating the contributions of some of our nation's leaders, Presidents Day is not without controversy. Several presidents participated in the exploitation of disadvantaged groups by owning slaves. Tubman, on the other hand, was a selfless leader who put her life in danger to aid others in escaping slavery and fighting for their rights. Therefore, Tubman deserves to be a federal holiday and replace President’s day. The Underground Railroad was a critical part of the abolitionist movement. Black people faced …show more content…
The Fugitive Slave Law increased the risk to Tubman's work. This gave commissioners power to remove or take fugitives from service or labor whether they escaped slavery or fled. Anyone found in violation of the law might be punished severely, including imprisonment and fines, for aiding a fugitive slave. It is said that all good citizens are hereby commanded to aid and assist in the execution of this slave law. People who escaped would be prevented from molestation. Officers are mentioned to have a lot of power, being able to arrest and retain fugitives in custody and deliver them back to where they came from. They can use force and can receive compensation for their efforts. Despite this, Tubman persisted in her efforts on the Underground Railroad and aided several fugitives in their escape from slavery. She was also known to carry a revolver and was prepared to use it if required for protection. Which was illegal to carry for slaves or any free person of color ( T. Markus Funk, 1995, p.