#4-011: Frederick Douglass 4th of July Speech and Excerpts from Narrative from the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave; A conversation with Gabriel Anthony-Kemp

podcast Jul 03, 2025
Frederick Douglass 4th of July Speech and Excerpts from Narrative from the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave; A conversation with Gabriel Anthony-Kemp
 


How can you celebrate true freedom and equality on the 4th of July,  Independence Day?

Focus on Frederick Douglass, an abolitionist and orator.

In this episode, Aminata celebrates the life and legacy of Frederick Douglass in the context of the 4th of July. She converses with her son, Gabriel Anthony-Kemp, about the impact and inspiration drawn from Douglass's life. Gabriel discusses his admiration for Douglass's visionary and uncompromising spirit. The episode features a reading from Douglass’s autobiography, highlighting the traumatic experiences of slavery, and underscores Douglass's dedication to not only freeing himself but also striving for the freedom of others.

Music is “Help Me” by Michael Jamanis (www.michaeljamanis.com)

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Purpose

00:07 Frederick Douglass and the 4th of July

00:53 Conversation with Gabriel

02:09 Gabriel's Admiration for Douglass

04:15 Reading from Douglass's Autobiography

07:13 Reflections on Douglass's Legacy

Who is Frederick Douglass and Why is Frederick Douglass important?

This episode shows our greatest leaders have always been concerned about solidarity and linking our movement for freedom with human rights of ALL people. 

Please comment or share if you want to spread this message! 

In 1867, only two years after the slavery ended in the U.S., Douglass spoke out against racism against Chinese and Japanese Americans.  He argued that Chinese immigrants should be allowed to become citizens just like any other immigrants.

He envisioned a "Composite Nation," a multi-racial, multicultural America that recognized human rights.  

You can watch the music video featuring Douglass’s Composite Nation speech here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1f7_Mz7lbJk&t=4s

 

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