A recent article by Bilal G. Morris for NewsOne explores the legacy of the “Mother of Civil Rights in California”, Mary Ellen Pleasant, and the demonization of her legacy due to racism and a misunderstanding of her religious and spiritual practices.
Mary Ellen Pleasant Memorial Park, though small in size, commemorates one of the most influential Black women in American history. Built on land that was once part of her vast estate, the park is rumored to be haunted by the spirit of Mary Ellen Pleasant herself, also know as “San Francisco’s Voodoo Queen.”
Morris writes, “At Mary Ellen Pleasant Memorial Park, Mary Ellen’s ghost is said to summon chills, frighten dogs, and sometimes even catapult nuts from her trees at tourists and onlookers wanting a show. But the woman who was once described by San Francisco newspapers as a Voodoo sorcerer who was once seen eating a man’s brains was actually one of the richest, most powerful people in the city. Before 1900, Pleasant had amassed a fortune of $30 million (around $650 million now).”
The early life of Mary Ellen Pleasant is enigmatic, but it is commonly believed she was born into slavery around 1814 in Georgia. After being bought and liberated, she worked as an indentured servant in Rhode Island and Nantucket
In 1852, Pleasant headed west to evade prosecution under the Fugitive Slave Act. Drawn to San Francisco by the Gold Rush, she sought to extend the Underground Railroad. Her ability to pass as a white woman proved advantageous. Having inherited a considerable sum from her first husband, she invested in San Francisco, opening laundries, dairies, and exclusive restaurants catering to gold miners and politicians. Partnering with white banker Thomas Bell, she built a business empire. Soon, she became a household name, even among the city’s most powerful elites. Yet, Pleasant harbored a hidden agenda: to leverage her influence to create better opportunities for Black people.
While Pleasant was open about her identity with San Francisco’s Black residents, they kept her race a secret. In return, she used her status to secure housing, jobs, and loans for the Black community. She also financed legal battles and pushed for the city’s elite to hire Black workers. Pleasant became known as “Black City Hall” among her peers.
Despite her many accomplishments, Pleasant faced continuous demonization, particularly in relation to her connection with Voodoo. It’s crucial to challenge the stigmatization of African traditions and religions, such as Voodoo, which are often unfairly portrayed as evil by white members of society. These practices are an integral part of Black heritage and deserve respect like any other religion.
Mary Ellen Pleasant’s legacy stands as a powerful example of perseverance and resolve in the face of adversity. Her story, with striking similarities to contemporary issues—from racism to fake news—deserves to be acknowledged and celebrated alongside other important Black narratives in American history. Recognizing her contributions, as well as those of other notable figures, allows us to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the richness of Black culture and spirituality.
One such notable figure is Marie Laveau, the famous Voodoo Queen of New Orleans. Laveau was a respected and influential practitioner of Voodoo in the 19th century, known for her healing powers, spiritual guidance, and charitable work. Like Pleasant, Laveau’s legacy has often been overshadowed by sensationalized accounts and misconceptions about Voodoo. The practice, which originated in West Africa and evolved in the Caribbean and the United States, has frequently been misrepresented as sinister or malevolent, largely due to the demonization of African traditions and religions by white society.
It is essential to recognize and honor the legacies of individuals like Mary Ellen Pleasant and Marie Laveau, not only for their remarkable personal achievements but also for their broader impact on Black culture and spirituality. By doing so, we can help to dispel the myths and misunderstandings that have long surrounded practices like Voodoo, and promote a more accurate and respectful view of these essential aspects of Black heritage. In this way, we can foster greater appreciation for the diverse tapestry of Black history and pave the way for continued cultural understanding and respect.
