Washington- A statue of a former slave who became a women’s rights activist is now on display in Washington DC. First Lady Michelle Obama, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi unveiled a bust of Sojourner Truth at the Capitol Visitor Center.

The sculpture will be on permanent display in the underground center’s main space, called Emancipation Hall.  The first lady talked about Sojourner Truth’s crusade for women’s rights and ending slavery, and how she would be so proud to see how America has changed saying: “Just imagine what she would say about this incredible gathering, just looking down on this day. And thinking about the legacy she left all of us, because we are all here.”

Sojourner Truth met with President Lincoln and with President Grant in 1870.  She tried to vote on two occassions but was turned away both times. Now, she is the first black woman with a bust at the nation’s capitol.