Frederick Douglass and the Fourth of July

The relationship between Black Americans and the Fourth of July has been a troubled one, to say the least. Many citizens celebrate the day while reflecting on the holiday’s meaning and history. An important figure who touched on Blacks’ relationship with the patriotic holiday was prominent abolitionist Frederick Douglass.

Outside of his abolition and political work, Douglass was known as a great orator and writer who fearlessly called out social and moral wrongs. His best-known written work became in the form of his powerful and scathing 1852 Fourth of July speech “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” His friend and Ladies anti-Slavery Society of Rochester treasurer Judith Griffith invited Douglass to speak. In true Douglass fashion, he informed the organization he would perform the speech on July 5 instead. The notable scholar got his wish and gave his even-handed critique of America on the date to an audience of 600 attendees at the Corinthian Hall. The commanding orator challenged the hypocrisy of celebrating independence while the institution of slavery was still in place after praising the Founding Fathers. His words came at a crucial time as the nation faced a crossroads over the validity of slavery (a decade before the American Civil War).

At the time of his powerful speech, Douglass faced personal and financial upheaval. His independent newspaper, The North Star, struggled to keep afloat despite an impressive readership in the 1840s and 1850s. He struggled to support his young family following a mental breakdown during the same period. The speech was seen as a favor from Griffith, an avid supporter of his newspaper.

Since the original reading in 1852, countless figures have recited Douglass’ words. Danny Glover, Morgan Freeman, and Ossie Davis have breathed new life into the abolitionist’s biting critique. At one point, his descendants read his words in a special presentation.

So as we celebrate the Fourth of July this year, let’s not forget the legacy of Frederick Douglass and the ongoing fight for freedom and equality.

Originally published at http://adreonpatterson.net on July 4, 2023.