Today, let’s celebrate the incredible legacy of Sylvia Del Villard—a true trailblazer in American history. Born in Puerto Rico, Sylvia was an actress, dancer, choreographer, and a fierce advocate for Afro-Latinx culture and civil rights. Through her vibrant performances and fearless activism, she gave a voice to those who were often overlooked and inspired pride in Black heritage. Sylvia didn’t just entertain—she educated and empowered. Her bold spirit and dedication to justice remind us that our differences make us stronger, and our stories deserve to be heard.

• Champion for Afro-Puerto Rican heritage: She celebrated and preserved the rich traditions of Afro-Puerto Rican culture.
• Founded the Afro-Boricua El Coquí Theater: Created a space for authentic Black Puerto Rican stories and cultural pride.
• Fought against racial discrimination: Spoke out boldly against racism and demanded equality for Afro-Latinx communities.
• Elevated Black voices in the arts: Opened doors for Black artists, helping diversify the stage and inspire future generations.
• Used performance as activism: Tackled tough topics like racism and identity through powerful dance and theater.
• Inspired pride in Black identity: Encouraged others to embrace and celebrate their heritage.
• Brought African traditions into the spotlight: Showed how African culture shapes Puerto Rican and American art.
• Mentored young artists and activists: Guided and inspired the next generation of performers and changemakers.
• Challenged stereotypes in media: Fought for empowering, accurate portrayals of Black and Afro-Latinx people.
• Left a lasting legacy: Her work in the arts and activism continues to influence and uplift communities today.

Today, we’re telling the story of Harriet Tubman—one of the bravest heroes in American history. Born into slavery around 1822, Tubman endured harsh conditions, but she never let that stop her. She escaped to freedom and then risked her life to help others do the same. As a conductor on the Underground Railroad, she guided enslaved people to safety, never losing a single passenger. But her courage didn’t end there. During the Civil War, she was a nurse, a scout, and even led a military raid. Her lifelong fight for justice still inspires us today.

• Led over 70 enslaved people to freedom as a conductor on the Underground Railroad.
• Never lost a single person she helped escape, showing her extraordinary care and skill.
• Became a spy, nurse, and scout for the Union Army during the Civil War.
• First woman in U.S. history to lead an armed military raid, freeing over 700 enslaved people.
• Fought for women’s rights and the right to vote after the Civil War.
• Inspired generations with her bravery, faith, and determination.
• Helped shape the abolitionist movement, working with leaders like Frederick Douglass.
• Became a symbol of hope and resilience for African Americans and all Americans.
• Advocated for elderly and former enslaved people, opening a home for them later in life.

We hope you learned something through our podcast today.  We sure did.  Stay tuned for more Rebuilding HIstory 2025 podcasts.  Please subscribe and like accordingly.  Hook us up!!