I have to do a 1 minute speech on my accomplishments pretending to be Mother Jones. I have all of my information, but need a good opening and closing sentence. Also, does anybody have ideas for a costume. i don't really have any big puffy dresses.

I found this sentence from Wikipedia to be dramatic and might be worked into a good opening for your speech.

"Two major turning points in her career were, first, the deaths of her husband and four children during a yellow fever epidemic in Tennessee in 1867, and secondly, the loss of her property in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871."

You could refer back to these tragedies in your closing.

These images suggest you could wear a plain dark colored long dress. A simple white blouse and a long dark skirt would also work.

To create a compelling opening and closing sentence for your speech as Mother Jones, consider the following suggestions:

Opening Sentence:
"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, I stand before you today, channeling the spirit of Mother Jones, to share with you the remarkable accomplishments that have shaped my legacy and continue to inspire generations."

Closing Sentence:
"As I conclude my reflection on the journey of a lifetime, I urge you all to remember that true change starts with the collective power of ordinary individuals united by a shared vision. Let us continue, in the footsteps of Mother Jones, to fight tirelessly for justice, equity, and a better future for all."

As for costume ideas, since you mentioned not having puffy dresses, here are a few visually impactful options you can consider:

1. Practical Labor Activist Look:
Opt for a practical outfit representing Mother Jones' dedication to working-class advocacy. Choose a simple blouse, buttoned-up skirt, shawl, and accessorize with a pair of glasses, a hat, and perhaps a prop like a picket sign or a megaphone.

2. Victorian-Era Garments:
While Mother Jones lived during the late Victorian era, you can still capture the essence of her time by wearing a blouse with a high neck and long sleeves, paired with a long skirt. Add a cameo brooch, a lace collar, and a bonnet or a wide-brimmed hat to complete the look.

3. Professional Speaker Attire:
If you prefer a modern interpretation, dress as a professional speaker or lecturer. Wear a tailored pantsuit or a blazer paired with slacks or a skirt. Accessorize with a microphone prop and a nametag that says "Mother Jones."

Remember, it's not just about the costume, but more importantly, the content of your speech and how you embody the spirit and accomplishments of Mother Jones. Good luck with your presentation!