On July 5, 1852, abolitionist Frederick Douglass spoke in Rochester, New York about the hypocrisy of a nation celebrating its freedom when millions of its people were bound by slavery. Through his speech, Douglass held up a mirror to the nation’s values, emphasizing the cruel irony of the independence day celebration.

The injustice that continues in our country makes the Frederick Douglass speech as relevant today as it was in 1852.

The Unitarian Universalist Society of Grafton & Upton (UUSGU) in partnership with the Grafton Public Library is gathering people of all backgrounds and ages on Grafton Common to experience the moving words of Frederick Douglass’ famous speech:

"What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?"

The event will be held on July 5, 2025 on Grafton Common beginning at 6:00 pm. (Rain location; Grafton Unitarian Church, 3 Grafton Common).

Those attending the event are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and a picnic. Event organizers will provide water and snacks.  

6:00 - Family activities and program featuring musicians and friends of UUSGU

6:30 - Reading of the Frederick Douglass speech.

7:15 - Discussion groups will explore the meaning and relevance of Douglass' words to each of us today, particularly as they relate to America’s continuing legacy of slavery and racism.  

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About the Unitarian Universalist Society of Grafton & Upton

The Unitarian Universalist Society of Grafton & Upton is a community of people who recognize the inherent good in all people, extend love and acceptance to everyone, embrace the worth and dignity of every individual, and foster each other’s spiritual growth, no matter their beliefs.

About the Grafton Public Library

The Grafton Public Library provides residents of any age opportunities to find and use information in many formats as they pursue personal growth and education throughout their lives.

About Mass Humanities

Mass Humanities, a non-profit foundation based in Northampton, creates opportunities for the people of Massachusetts to transform their lives and build a more equitable commonwealth through the humanities.  

Since its founding in 1974, the organization has provided millions of dollars in support of thousands of humanities projects across the Commonwealth. Established as the state-based affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), Mass Humanities is an independent programming and grantmaking organization that receives support from the NEH and the Massachusetts Cultural Council, as well as private sources. For more information, visit www.masshumanities.org

About Mass Cultural Council

Mass Cultural Council works to elevate the rich cultural life in Massachusetts by amplifying creativity, providing resources, expanding relationships, and championing transformational changes that maintain and grow a thriving creative and cultural ecosystem. For more information visit:  

https://massculturalcouncil.org/