About - Home | The Ona Judge Coalition

About Ona Judge

A Legacy
of Courage

Ona Judge was an enslaved woman in the household of George and Martha Washington. In 1796, she made the courageous decision to escape to freedom in New Hampshire, becoming one of the first known individuals to successfully flee from the Washingtons.

Her bravery remains an enduring symbol of resilience, self-determination, and the relentless pursuit of liberty.

“I’d rather die free, than live to be a slave.”

-Ona Judge

1773

1790s

1796

1797+

1848

Enslaved at Mount Vernon

Ona Judge is believed to have been born into slavery at George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate.

Lives and Works in the Washington Household

Ona works in the household of George and Martha Washington.

Escapes to Freedom

Ona Judge escapes to New Hampshire, demonstration extraordinary courage and determination.

Builds a New Life in New Hampshire

Ona creates a life of independence in Exeter, NH, where she is known in the community.

Honored Legacy

Ona Judge passes away in Exeter, New Hampshire. Her legacy continues to inspire generations.

About the

Ona Judge Coalition

The Ona Judge Coalition (TOJC) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, ecumenical, multi-racial alliance of Philadelphians and others committed to ensuring that the true and accurate history of slavery
at. the President’s House is told and preserved. This will be accomplished through a muti-platform public awareness initiative entitled, “Who is Ona Judge?”

Our goal, over the next several months, is to preserve the accurate history of slavery through immersive technology, scholarship, community engagement, public discussions and permanent installations.

Our Objectives

Over the next several months, July 4, 2026, and beyond, TOJC endeavors to ensure that an accessible, historically accurate account of slavery remains available to the public in various venues and locations. Our initiatives will employ a public forum; digital, physical, and experiential tools to engage audiences; and create enduring physical installations and digital resources to safeguard this history. The cultural and educational initiatives will foster dialogue beyond digital storytelling and physical displays. They will also feature lectures, panel discussions and book signings at the African American Museum in Philadelphia, The Free Library of Philadelphia, Girard College, and the School District of Philadelphia.

Educate

We share accurate history and untold stories through programs, curricula, and public awareness initiatives.

Empower

We invest in communities through youth leadership, scholarships, and capacit-building opportunities.

advocate

We champion policies and practices that promote racial justice, equity, and human rights.

collaborate

We partner we individuals, organizations, and institutions to create lasting, meaningful change.