Born a slave, Ida B. Wells used her strength to begin and lead an anti-lynching crusade in the 1890s. Ida B. Wells was a journalist who used her voice to speak for the many African-American citizens and women who were suffering from the unfair treatment and unequal rights. Not only did she use her voice in journals and papers, she was the founder and inspiration for groups striving for African-American justice. Ida B. Wells used her voice and her life to dedicate herself to the many men and women who were suffering every day. Ida B. Wells is remembered, even today, as a voice for the African-American community.
“The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them.”
--Ida B. Wells-- Ida B. Wells – Writer with a Strong Voice
Ida’s Journalism—The Making of Ida
Ida B. Wells was an African-American woman who entered the world on July 16, 1862 in Holly Springs, Mississippi. Ida B. Wells was born to slaves James and Lizzie Wells. When Ida was just six months old, her and her family, as well
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Wells wrote many different articles and editorials, however, some of them led to upsetting consequences for her. In 1891, Ida B. Wells was taking courses at Fisk University and teaching. However, due to an editorial that Ida wrote, accusing the Memphis school board of not providing fair and adequate resources to the schools African-Americans were forced to attend, Ida was fired from her teaching job. (AAR 2017)
Ida B. Wells energized Kant’s Categorical Imperative theory through her journalism. Kant’s Categorical Imperative theory is summarized as: “Doing what is right, despite the consequences.” (Johnson 2012) Ida B. Wells fought for the African American community through her journalism, her daily life, and the many organizations she helped found or inspire. Ida B. Wells used her voice to fight for the rights of her community regardless of who would be upset or disagree with her opinion. Ida’s moral reasoning was much past getting acceptance of those around