Born on this day in Corning, New York, Margaret Sanger (1879–1966) was a woman of deep conviction. A trained nurse, she witnessed suffering that stirred her soul—especially the toll of unending childbirths on her own mother’s body. From that pain emerged a purpose: to help women reclaim their ability to decide for themselves.

In an era when women couldn’t yet vote, Sanger dared to speak openly about birth control—a phrase she herself coined. She believed that freedom begins with knowledge, and that no woman is truly free until she can decide when and whether to become a mother.

With passion and boldness, she founded the first family planning clinic in the U.S. and later helped establish what would become Planned Parenthood. Her work, though debated to this day, helped spark a global shift in how the world views women, health, and the right to shape one's own life.

“Woman must not accept; she must challenge,” Sanger wrote, envisioning a world where women could revere their own voices and trust the power within.

She was not perfect—few pioneers are. But her legacy speaks of love made visible through advocacy, and a belief that every child deserves to be wanted, planned for, and welcomed into a world of care.

Margaret Sanger's work was rooted in the heart, offering education and possibilities. Her life reminds us: progress begins when we honor truth and empower each person to shape their own life with compassion.

As we continue to learn from history, may we carry forward the courage to listen and uplift every voice with dignity and hope.