Photo: Sophia Duleep Singh Image source en.wikipedia.org
The fight for women’s suffrage in the United Kingdom often brings to mind the familiar stories of iconic white activists, such as Emmeline Pankhurst and Millicent Fawcett. Yet, the crucial contributions of Black and Brown women to this movement are often overshadowed. Among these trailblazers, Sarah Parker Remond and Sophia Duleep Singh stand out as remarkable figures whose activism significantly shaped the landscape of women’s rights in Britain.
Sarah Parker Remond was not just an advocate for women’s rights but a force of nature. Born to a family of free Black abolitionists in the United States, Remond became a dynamic lecturer and speaker in mid-19th-century England, passionately raising awareness about the intersections of race and gender in the suffrage movement. She boldly proclaimed that the fight for women’s rights could not be separated from the battle against racial injustice, highlighting the critical connection between the liberation of women of colour and broader social progress.
Her stirring speeches drew attention and rallied support for women’s rights, challenging the prevailing narrative that often overlooked the voices of women of colour. Remond fought not only for voting rights but also actively challenged the systemic racism that permeated society. Beyond suffrage, she championed education and healthcare for Black women and children, highlighting the pressing issues that marginalised communities faced.
Equally inspiring is the story of Sophia Duleep Singh. As the daughter of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, she emerged as a vibrant suffragette in Britain at the turn of the 20th century. Deeply involved with the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU), Singh used her royal background as a powerful platform to advocate for women’s voting rights through bold, direct action.
Sophia didn’t just show up; she galvanised support, participating in prominent protests, including the historic 1910 Black Sunday march. Her role went beyond mere participation—she was integral to the fundraising efforts and helped maintain the campaign’s momentum, even in the face of resistance.
Being a woman of colour in a predominantly white movement added depth and complexity to her fight, highlighting the urgent need for a more inclusive approach to women’s rights.
