Legacy of Protection: Celebrating Women’s History

WOMEN AND FIREARMS

In March 2026, we stand on the shoulders of giants. History often overlooks the intrinsic relationship between African American women and firearms—a relationship forged in the necessity of self-defense and the pursuit of liberty. From Harriet Tubman, who carried a revolver to protect those she guided to freedom, to Ida B. Wells, who advocated for armed self-defense against racial violence, firearms have long been tools of empowerment.

Contemporary Voices and Changing Narratives

During the Civil Rights Era, women like Fannie Lou Hamer and many others relied on their right to keep and bear arms to protect their families when the law would not. This legacy continues today, as more minority women than ever are taking charge of their personal safety through education, training, and ownership.

African American women today cite a range of motivations for firearm ownership: personal protection, constitutional rights, sport shooting, and a desire for self-reliance. Importantly, many emphasize safety training, responsible ownership, and community education.

Around 25 % of American women (about 42 million) report owning a firearm as of recent estimates — a figure that has been increasing over time.

Women have made up nearly half of new gun buyers between 2019 and 2021, a notable shift compared with historical norms.

As we honor Women’s History Month, recognizing this complex legacy deepens our understanding of how African American women have navigated power, protection, and protest across generations.