A week to honour Douglass
A week is being dedicated to a former enslaved American man who went on to lecture to packed audiences across Ireland.
175 years ago Fredrick Douglass, who escaped from bondage in Maryland to become a leader of the movement to end slavery in the United States, visited Ireland. He was an African-American abolitionist who, between 1845-1846, lectured in Ireland. To commemorate his historic visit, UCC academics - in collaboration with students, artists, writers and community groups around Ireland - have launched #DouglassWeek with the support of the Frederick Douglass family.
#DouglassWeek is an all-island, creative and collaborative event series, taking place in the week of Douglass’s self-chosen birthday in February 2021. It will run from 8-14 February 2021 and will feature a variety of performative events, creative installations and critical discussions, offering a collection of responses to Douglass’ footprint in Ireland. The public are being invited to participate in #DouglassWeek and organisers are welcoming ideas for creative commemorations from Douglass enthusiasts around the world, with a specific focus on his life and journey across the island.
During his visit to Ireland, Douglass visited Cork, Dublin, Wexford, Waterford, Limerick and Belfast. He met with Daniel O’Connell, a major inspiration in his fight against injustice, and reflected upon the devastating effects of the famine then beginning to sweep the nation. Towards the end of his four-month tour of Ireland, Douglass wrote: “I can truly say I have spent some of the happiest moments of my life since landing in this country. I seem to have undergone a transformation. I live a new life.”
Dr Caroline Schroeter, coordinator of the event series, said: “#DouglassWeek aims to connect people who share an interest and passion for Frederick Douglass, but also offers a platform for people to discuss contemporary issues related to his life and legacy.”
Meanwhile Independent Cllr Lorna Bogue has asked that Cork City Council investigate naming a street or place to honour Frederick Douglass. This motion has been sent to the Roads and Environment Directorate for decision.