Sojourner Truth – Abolitionist and Women’s Rights Activist
Portrayed by: Charlotte Starks (“Mama Charlotte,” NSOUL President)
Charlotte Starks—“Mama Charlotte”—embodies the spirit and truth-telling fire of Sojourner Truth, one of the most powerful orators in American history. A co-founder of NSOUL and its president since 2009, Charlotte has created spaces across Utah where Black voices and intergenerational stories thrive. She holds a Master’s in Organizational & Intercultural Communication from Weber State University.
Known for her soul-deep authenticity, Charlotte calls audiences to action just as Sojourner Truth did—with clarity, heart, and unwavering purpose. Her portrayal reminds listeners that storytelling is not only art—it is activism.
Susan B. Anthony – Women’s Rights Activist
Portrayed by: Jan C. Smith (Utah Storytelling Guild)
Jan C. Smith revives her dynamic portrayal of Susan B. Anthony, the suffragist who dedicated her life to voting rights, women’s equality, and social reform. With a background in theater and education, Jan has performed at the Timpanogos and Weber State storytelling festivals and often brings historical characters to life, including Anthony, in past commemorations of the 19th Amendment.
Jan’s humor, empathy, and performance skills—honed through years as a high school drama teacher and literacy specialist—create a vivid and humanizing portrait of Anthony. Paired with Charlotte Starks’ portrayal of Sojourner Truth, Jan helps highlight the interconnected yet complex partnership between two of the women’s movement’s most enduring voices.