'Harriet' star Cynthia Erivo on why Harriet Tubman’s historical story is relevant even after 150 years
The recently released 'Harriet' explores the history of slavery in America and the rise of Harriet Tubman, a plantation worker who escaped from her owner and freed hundreds of slaves through the Underground Railroad.
With her courage, ingenuity, and determination, she became one of the greatest abolitionists of all time and changed the course of American history.
While the story is meaningful and highly significant for the country's past, we cannot but question why now? After two centuries, why is it important for Harriet's story to be told to the people?
We find our answers with Cynthia Erivo, who plays the character of Harriet Tubman. In a candid conversation with MEA WorldWide (MEAWW), she tells us that although we are hundreds of years ahead of these historical events, we are now living in a time when people could use such inspirations, particularly women.
In present times, it is all the more important for women of color to know that they are strong, powerful and can make a difference to the world.
In her words, "This is the time when we need to see such inspirations. We are in a place where things start to feel a little tough, a little helpless. And to see a story of hope, strength, perseverance, and love, is probably going to help bring change."
We also wondered how much it would have taken for Cynthia to research the character and get into the skin of Harriet Tubman.
As any great actor would prepare, Cynthia did in-depth homework by visiting African-American museums and speaking to historians. She did a lot of physical training as well since there was a lot of action involved.
But what was most impressive was that she personally met the family descendants of Harriet Tubman and learned about her and her services.
Overall, there were multiple things that Cynthia ended up learning, preparing, and exploring to become Harriet Tubman, a legend who truly changed American history.