Portrait of Frederick Douglass (February 1817 or 1818 – February 20, 1895), a former slave who became an abolitionist and Civil Rights activist, writer, and Suffragist. Douglass, unconsented, was the first African-American nominated for vice president on an Equal Right Party ticket with the first woman running for president. Photograph engraving published in 1895. Original edition is from my own archives. Copyright has expired and is in Public Domain.

What to a Slave is the 4th of July? Community Read of Frederick Douglass’ Address

February 1 @ 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

The Wellesley community will come together on Sunday, February 1, 2026 (snow date Sunday, February 8) to read Frederick Douglass’ influential address, What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?. The life and works of Frederick Douglass continue to shape our understanding of America. A gifted orator and prescient writer, Douglass forces us to reckon with the legacy of slavery and the promises of democracy. This event will be held at Wellesley Hills Congregational Church, with a grant received from Mass Humanities. All are welcome to this free event.