“What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?” represents a pivotal speech delivered by Frederick Douglass on July 5, 1852, at Corinthian Hall in Rochester, New York, during an event organized by the Rochester Ladies’ Anti-Slavery Society. In this impactful address, Douglass articulated that celebratory assertions of American values—such as liberty, citizenship, and freedom—pose a significant contradiction for the enslaved population, who were systematically deprived of these fundamental rights. He brought forth important reflections on the plight of enslaved individuals, shedding light on the grave exploitation and inhumane treatment they faced in the United States.
Join Westford’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee with the Westford Historical Society and Museum as we come together as a community to amplify the voices of Westford citizens in a public reading to present the powerful words of Frederick Douglass’s speech.
Let’s unite in this inspiring tribute!
This program is made possible by a grant from Mass Humanities,
which provides funding through the Massachusetts Cultural Council
