Frederick Douglass
June 30, 2017 -
In his famous July 4 speech delivered 165 years ago, abolitionist Frederick Douglass said, "With brave men, there is always a remedy for oppression." Now is the time for Congress to be brave for democracy and vote to restore the eviscerated Voting Rights Act.
July 1, 2016 -
As the U.S. celebrates its 240th Independence Day, Frederick Douglass' 1852 speech "What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July" serves as a reminder that there are still those who are excluded from the American dream.
July 3, 2014 -
Political psychologists distinguish between "blind patriotism" that's intolerant and unquestioning and "constructive patriotism," which welcomes questioning with the hope of creating positive change. On this most patriotic of holidays, we share some of our favorite writings and songs in the spirit of the latter, and we invite you to do the same.
July 4, 2013 -
This Independence Day, we revisit one of our favorite holiday-themed readings: the brilliant speech by abolitionist leader Frederick Douglass reminding us of the unfinished work of guaranteeing liberty and justice for all. So what's your favorite reading for the 4th?