About us.

our mission

The Harriet Tubman Liberation Foundation Inc., a 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation, has a mission to guide and support young people (ages 18-30) in Auburn, NY, and surrounding towns, and eventually nationwide. Our mission is to create an environment that fosters growth and well-being, teaching the importance of healthy interdependence within supportive and affirming communities. We aim to guide youth and young adults to engage in building and sustaining relationships and solidarity among diverse people committed to creating a more just world.

our Vision

The Harriet Tubman Liberation Foundation envisions a future where young individuals thrive and lead liberated lives in the areas of career, relationships, and community responsibility and participation. To realize this vision, our goal is to establish a campus for Liberation mentorships and a Summer Freedom School.

Our vision is also committed to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. We will work to foster environments where individuals can thrive by providing the resources, support, and affirming spaces necessary for their growth and well-being. Empower them to cultivate healthy interdependence within inclusive communities that celebrate diversity, ensure equity, and promote accessibility for all.

Why Harriet & the Sankofa Heart?

Harriet Tubman Davis was a woman of faith and courage. She led enslaved Africans to freedom on the Underground Railroad, guided 750 people to liberation during the Civil War, and spent over 50 years fighting for the elderly and women’s rights. Her maternal grandmother, “Modesty,” was captured and enslaved from the Gold Coast (presently Ghana). Historical records indicate that Harriet recalled that Eastern Shore black folk likened her to the “Shante” people of Africa, known for their bold warrior spirit. 

Queen Mother Harriet Tubman Davis embodies the spirit of the Akan symbols of Sankofa.

Sankofa (phonetic /ˈsɑn.kɔ.fə/, pronounced SAN-kaw-fah) has two Adinkra symbols originating from the Akan people of Ghana—the bird and the heart. Its name comes from the Twi expression, “San kɔfa!” whose literal meaning is “Go back and get it!” a command to pay due regard to the lessons and practices of the past and to draw on them to inform the present and the future.

Our Logo, the Sankofa Heart, is an abstract heart shape with intricate colors and symmetrical spirals representing the continuous need of ourheart to draw on lessons from the past to inform the present and future liberation of all people. It aims to aid in the thriving of everyone in our communities through unwavering and relentless determination to “Go back and get,” bringing forth all individuals with loving commitment toward a vital and thriving existence.

Meet the BOARD

Strategic Plan

The Harriet Tubman Liberation Foundation Inc. (HTLF) has developed a strategic plan to scale up our operations and deepen our community impact. We have created a comprehensive funding plan (SFP) for donor engagement, civic leadership, and community partnerships. Operating as a community foundation with a focus on grant-making and asset growth, HTLF's goal is to adopt and adapt core components to expand our capacity and impact, particularly in youth-focused areas such as education, employment, civics, and life skills.

Our plan includes the following growth objectives to ensure the long-term mission of our organization:

  • Establish a Sustainable Financial Infrastructure

  • Define and Expand HTLF Impact Areas

  • Position HTLF as a Civic Leader

  • Build a Diversified Revenue Model

  • Grow Community Trust & Donor Base

  • Build Strategic Partnerships

  • Invest in Internal Capacity

  • Measure and Communicate Impact

  • Leverage the Harriet Tubman Legacy

Empowering Change Through Collaboration

Make an impact that transforms lives and communities. Join us in driving forward powerful initiatives with unwavering commitment and relentless determination.