Religion and Sarah Grimke
The concept of religion is something that is widely used but frequently misunderstood. During the 19th century religious ideologies were widely practiced, and had subsequent influences on nearly every facet of society. Sadly, religion was used particularly in the form of Christianity to keep certain groups oppressed; these groups included (but not limited to) both women and Blacks. Christianity despite its teachings of kindness, love and equality was somehow twisted and instead of focusing on doctrines that promote liberty, White Americans used it to keep minority groups marginalized. The writings of Sarah Grimke, Prince Hall "The Seneca Falls Declaration of Sentiments and Resolutions" each contend with issues of oppression surrounding each author's individual minority group. Yet it can easily be noted that religion seems to be a reoccurring theme in each of the writings. Therefore, because the 19th century man had a sacrilegious mindset, he imposed various social oppressions on both women and Blacks. It could be understood that the common thread throughout each of the responses made by Grimke, Hall, and the Seneca Falls piece is that of religion. Prince Hall, in the "Petition to Massachusetts Legislature" makes many bold a
ssertions regarding the role of Blacks in American society. Hall contends that because America has labeled herself as a free country granting everyone the natural and unalienable right to freedom, it only seems fair for Blacks to enjoy this right also. The basis of his argument is the fact that "the great parent of the universe", has bestowed the right of freedom upon man, and because these rights have never been forfeited, it is only fair for Blacks enjoy their unalienable rights likewise. In support of this idea, Hall employs the comparison of America's struggle with Britain. America felt as if it was her natural right to be freed of Britain's hold, yet she won't administer this same concept of natural liberty to Black America. After all, Blacks were in a very similar position to that of America in relation to Britain. It is evident that the influence of sacrilege has played a key role in each author's response. Yet, the common thread running through the responses of Hall, Grimke, and The Seneca Falls piece is more than just responding to the hypocrisy that sacrilege brings to the forefront, it is using the same devise and flipping it to be used as a defense mechanism. This is genus at its best, because it offers a very eloquent response to something so awful such as sacrilege. Grimke further asserts that woman have been deemed as very emotional beings, and because of this they have been stripped of the right to hold leadership positions. And because they are seen as helpmeets, who are called to submit fully to their husband, women face many economic abuses. The Seneca Falls piece does exactly what both Hall and Grimke did, and that is to call upon religion for justice. "Being invested by the Creator with the same capabilities, and the same consciousness of responsibility for their exercise.... and especially in regard
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Approximate Word count = 1250
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)
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