This Saturday marks an important event as the U.S. Postal Service, Detroit Postal Customer Council, and The Detroit River Project come together to celebrate ten individuals who were pivotal in guiding enslaved people to freedom via the Underground Railroad. This clandestine network, known for its secret routes and safehouses, served as a lifeline for those seeking liberation before the Civil War. The ceremony will introduce a set of commemorative stamps showcasing esteemed abolitionists such as Catharine Coffin, Frederick Douglass, Thomas Garrett, Laura Haviland, Lewis Hayden, Harriet Jacobs, William Lambert, Rev. Jermain Loguen, William Still, and Harriet Tubman.
William Lambert, a notable figure from Detroit, is especially recognized for his leadership within the abolitionist movement. Using codes, passwords, and secret handshakes, Lambert was key in navigating enslaved individuals towards freedom via the Underground Railroad’s intricate network. The tireless work of these individuals, often referred to as the ‘network to freedom,’ involved constant risks of detection and arrest in their mission to realize the dream of freedom for those denied their basic rights.
Lambert’s impact extended beyond his Underground Railroad activities. As a co-founder of Detroit Anti-Slavery Society in 1837, he brought together influential members from both Black and White communities, including Robert Banks, Madison Lightfoot, Edwin Cowles, Robert Steward, and Shubael Conant. His commitment to justice led him to address Michigan’s Legislature in 1840, advocating for an amendment to the state constitution that would ensure full citizenship rights for African Americans.
The free public event is scheduled for 1 p.m. this Saturday at St. Matthew’s and St. Joseph’s Episcopal Church, situated at 8850 Woodward Ave., Detroit.
Detroit’s crucial role in the Underground Railroad reflects not only its strategic location but also its community’s unwavering dedication to human rights and dignity. The upcoming stamp unveiling event celebrates not just the featured individuals but also Detroit’s significant contributions to America’s historical struggle for freedom and equality.
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