In 1852, Frederick Douglass was invited by Congress to speak to Congress about the 4th of July. He declined. Instead, he spoke to a different audience the next day, with scathing remarks about the lack of Independence he felt as a former slave and a man of African descent and castigating the United States for decades of slavery and injustice.

A community reading of this speech, which is horribly relevant today, will take place in front of City Hall on Saturday, July 6, 5-6:00. (In case of rain, Fletcher Free Library.) I hope you can join us to listen to or read part of this amazing speech. It is a very powerful experience.

Sponsored by Black Lives Matter Greater Burlington, Brown 'n Out, Vermont Humanities Council, and Peace & Justice Center. Introduction by Rajnii Eddins.

Oct 16, 2024

Oct 18, 2024, 9:30 to 11:30 AM

Oct 19, 2024, 10 AM to 7 PM