The reading took place on Saturday, June 27, 2026. The recitation was held in the Roosevelt Room of the Maynard Public Library, running from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM.

The event began with remarks by local historian and Library Trustee Francis Wyman about Douglass’ life, the context of his speech, and his influence on other abolitionists of his time. After the reading, Wyman opened up the floor to questions and comments from audience members, sparking a discussion about the legacy of Douglass’ words in today’s political climate.

Those present found the pre-abolition speech “What to the Slave is the 4th of July?” very thought-provoking and perhaps especially so, given our 250th celebration of 

the founding of our nation based on individual freedoms.  

The non-profit Black History Studies explained the significance of the 5th of July to Douglass’ speech in a Facebook post.

“After expressing respect for the Founding Fathers, Douglass shocked the audience by contrasting the triumphant jubilations of their celebration with the ‘mournful wails of millions’ and ‘heavy chains’ of the enslaved. In resistance to this hypocrisy, African Americans had begun recognizing the ‘Fifth of July’ instead. Douglass, who was quite popular on the public speaking circuit, used his speech to amplify their appeals for liberty and stand in unity with his fellow brothers and sisters.”

Prior to the reading, Select Board Chair Mike Stevens also shared some thoughts on Facebook. 

“Douglass wasn’t speaking to the oppressed. He was speaking to those who benefited from the system (the Rochester, NY, Ladies Anti-Slavery Society). In a largely white town today, many residents occupy a similar structural position, even if unintentionally. 

    What does freedom mean if others don’t share it?

    What responsibilities come with comfort and stability?

Douglass prompts listeners to address the idea that injustice can coexist with status quo, celebration, and even good intentions,” wrote Stevens.

The event featured state and town officials along with local community members reciting sections of the famous address. Readers below took turns sharing parts of the speech with those in attendance:

• Jamie Eldridge
• Kate Hogan
• Megan Bergman 
• Sally Bubier
• Becca Connors
• Stephanie Duggan
• David Gavin
• Dottie MacKeen
• Nikhil Rao 
• Megan Ray
• Mike Stevens
• Sally Thurston
• Christie Wyman

An abridged copy of the speech can be found here. The full speech and more information about the program to apply for a grant to do public readings of this speech are available here.

Again from Mike Stevens: “We look forward to hearing feedback from across the spectrum of our community on how the challenges posed by Frederick Douglass are still very relevant today.”