The Voice of a People: Speeches from Black America is a collection of historical speeches by some of the nation's leading black intellectuals, activists, artists, and organizers. Featuring such orators as Booker T. Washington, Frederick Douglass, Ida B. Wells, Sojourner Truth, and W. E. B. Du Bois, the collection reflects their leadership on issues ranging from abolition to lynching, women's suffrage, black nationalism, and labor organizing. In transmitting the public medium of speech to the page, The Voice of a People: Speeches from Black America endeavors to provide proper historical context and relevant biographical information for each orator and their work. By keeping their words alive, we not only honor the sacrifices of leaders who paved the way for African Americans today, but ensure their work will continue to contribute towards a better future for all.