Maggie Lena Walker 1864-1934 African-American Suffragist, Civil Right Activist Written and Performed By: Lauren Brown Setting: Richmond, Virginia, 1916 Stage Directions: It is a warm summer day in the Jackson Ward neighborhood of Richmond. Maggie Lena Walker is sitting in the parlor with her friend Janie, who came over to check on Maggie after the passing of her husband. Sounds of children laughing and playing outside are heard in the background. Let me know if you need all those papers moved out of your way, Janie. IÕve been meaning to clear off this table, but it feels like every time I step out of this house; I return with more and more papers. I appreciate you coming and sitting with me. But really, you didnÕt need to come check on me. She pauses and smiles at the sound of children laughing and playing outside. You hear those children? It is beautiful outside today and you and the girls should be enjoying it. I thought about taking a short walk myself, but my mind has been weighing with my thoughts. I hope you are not too warm. I'm going to shut this window for a moment. They are getting a bit noisy out there. ItÕs been a couple months since Armstead passed on and managing this large household all in my lonesome has been difficult, but not more than the Lord knows I can handle. IÕm remaining grateful. I am fortunate to have work at my bank and my investments to keep me comfortably situated and most importantly busy. You know I am at my best when I keep my mind preoccupied. Been that way since we were little girls. IÕve been keeping my mind steady on work but also staying involved in my organizations. Did you see that flier from The Equal Suffrage League of Virginia? ItÕs right at the top of that stack. Thank you. It showed up at my office the other day and they're looking for the National Association of Colored WomenÕs response. It argues that, and I quote, Ōgiving only white women the right to vote would preserve white supremacy and that the literacy test and poll tax would continue to deter blacks from voting.Ķ I applaud yet am skeptical of their intentions in the release of this flier. Why now? They are one of the same groups who were afraid that affiliation with colored women would impede on them gaining public and government support. Colored sisters forced to the back of their marches, fighting one social injustice, yet abiding by another. Though I struggle to stomach the issue, our association will stand fully in support with them as we bring voting rights to the General Assembly for the third time. Hopefully, it will stick. My, my! Look at the time. IÕm sorry I sound like IÕm giving a speech, Janie. I have done enough dwelling today. Come on, letÕs go take a walk. The League is looking to hear from me soon and IÕd like to discuss things in person. Oh and Janie, I promise I am doing okay.