What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?, is not only a speech given by Frederick Douglass but is also a book written by him as well. In today's day and age, I believe it is important to look at our history as a whole and put it into perspective with everything that is happening right now. There will never be a "right" side to be on, you just have to stick with what you believe in and keep an open mind for others opinions to be heard. Because this speech does exactly that, I chose to bring light on it.
At the time this speech was given, the Fugitive Slave Act had just been passed, allowing the return of slaves brought to the free states. Frederick Douglass was asked to speak at an event commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Although the people of America were "free", people of color for a long time were not. Every year on the Fourth of July we, as Americans, celebrate our independence, but have we ever stopped to think about how this actually effects other people?
Douglass talks about how brave the founding fathers were and how their manhood was strong by creating this document. Throughout the speech he says that in no way would he diminish their acts of patriotism, but simply states that this day is not meant for his people. There are several differences that Douglass points out to prove this point even more such as, "They were statesmen, patriots and heroes, and for the good they did, and the principles they contended for, I will unite with you to honor their memory."
This speech was meant to spread awareness throughout our nation for people of color who are treated unfairly compared to "natural Americans." I believe Douglass has made an everlasting impact on our nation and in today's society by giving this speech. Would you want to celebrate freedom for a country who doesn't want to see you free?
Below are some quotes that definitely stuck out to me while interpreting his speech
"Your high independence only reveals the immeasurable distance between us."
"The rich inheritance of justice, liberty, prosperity and independence, bequeathed by your fathers, is shared by you, not by me. The sunlight that brought life and healing to you, has brought stripes and death to me."
"This Fourth [of] July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice, I must mourn."
"There are seventy-two crimes in the State of Virginia, which, if committed by a black man, (no matter how ignorant he be), subject him to the punishment of death; while only two of the same crimes will subject a white man to the like punishment."
