Convention of American Women

CONVENTION OF AMERICAN WOMEN.

PUTNEY, (Vt.) April 27th, 1838.

MR. GARRISON:

Permit me, sir, through the medium of the Liberator, to address a few words to my fair country-women, who are soon to convene at Philadelphia.

Though far remote in the country, I am permitted to read and hear all the movements that are making to elevate the condition of my own sex, in various ways, though more especially those who are now suffering under southern slaveholders.

What I have to say, has been suggested to me by noticing the efforts that are making to promote the use of free labor, and by witnessing the great want of employment that is now experienced by a large class of females in this section of the country.

For several years past, the braiding of palm-leaf for men's hats, has given employment to a prodigious number of female hands; and it is almost incredible the amount that was earned, and the alacrity with which this opportunity was seized, to supply themselves not only with the necessaries of life, but with many of its comforts and superfluities. Of course, the market is now overstocked, and they are compelled, as it were, comparatively, to stand 'all the day idle.' I would therefore throw in my petition, and ask whether something cannot be done, by encouraging the working of palm-leaf into ladies' hats or bonnets? They can be wrought with great fineness and precision, and into any shape or fashion. Of the money that would thus be earned, there can be no doubt but some part of it would find its way into the treasury of the Lord, as it would enable many who would gladly cast in their mite, but now find it quite impossible.

I am well aware, however, that no movement in our favor can in reality better our condition, while the present rage for dress and devotion to fashion continues-to have its sway over us; There is a slavery and a mischief in this thing not much inferior, in its effects, to the slave trade, and as much calls for benevolent exertion. And is it not some object to remove the great guilt that now separates the rich and the poor? Can the war of God be done upon earth, as it is done in heaven, till we feel that we have 'all one Father,' and the rich and the poor meet together'?

To encourage industry in the lower classes of society, and at the same time to give your example and influence to simplicity of dress, by using our own, as much as possible, instead of foreign fabrics, must be an object worthy the attention of your Convention.

Though I shall not be present on this occasion, my spirit will be with you, and I shall look to it with great interest, as indicating the approach of the latter day glory' and as preparatory to the fulfilment of the promise which has never yet received its full accomplishment—The seed of the woman shall bruise the serpent's head.

P. NOYES.