Frances Baard

Frances Baard, known as “MaBaard” in her homeland of South Africa, went from being a domestic servant and teacher to being a highly respected political organizer who was arrested and prosecuted many times over the course of her activist career. Even after spending twelve months in solitary confinement, upon her release, MaBaard immediately resumed her work with the African National Congress, resulting in her being imprisoned once more -- this time for five years.

Subsequently banned to one area near Pretoria, where her activities could be more effectively restricted and monitored, MaBaard’s work continued with the United Democratic Front until the day that she finally got to see the White oppressors give up control of her nation. An in-your-face woman keeps working until the job is done.