Annual Commemoration of Frederick Douglass Day

By Jennifer L. Warren

NEWBURGH – It has been referred to as “one of the greatest pieces of American oratory ever delivered.” Incisive enough to bring its audience to tears, the legendary speech continues to be taught in universities 170 years later.

The 1852 first delivered verbal masterpiece: “What to the Slave is the 4th of July?” was crafted by Frederick Douglass, an American abolitionist, orator, writer and statesman. The riveting content of the speech returned to Newburgh on Tuesday, August 11, the day dubbed “Frederick Douglass in Newburgh Day,” commemorating the icon’s 1870 visit there where he delivered potent words-celebrating the passage of the 15th Amendment- in front of 4000 people. Since 2018, that transformative, proud Newburgh day has continued to evolve thanks to the formation of a committee and a host of offerings, including a living history reenactment-by G. Oliver King- of Douglass himself, emphatically reciting his verbal genius.

“Hope is needed over darkness on the horizon; oppression can make a man who is wise go mad,” King asserts, as he recites the 4th of July speech, especially fitting for the country’s 250th birthday this year. He then continues to point to the hypocrisy of the holiday as seen through a slave’s lens as well as many others.’ “Justice, prosperity and independence shared by you and not me, simply shows our distance; you may rejoice; I must mourn.” Later on adding, “That which is inhumane cannot be divine.”

A room full of attentive, mesmerized guests inside of Washington’s Headquarters’ State Historic Site could be seen fully absorbing the intensity and candidness of King’s words, sharply dressed in a tan suit and frilled white shirt, Douglass would have donned during the 19th Century while delivering this speech. It’s a moment that symbolized what Orange County Legislator, Gabrielle Burton-Hill, wanted to convey when she first envisioned, helped form and lead the Frederick Douglass Committee in 2017. Gaining momentum each of its six years, the Frederick Douglass in Newburgh Day had priceless support this year from: The Newburgh Enlarged School District, My Brother’s Keeper, Billy Joe’s Ribworks (provided a complete dinner feast-including pulled pork, chicken wings and macaroni and cheese- prior to the event), the City of Newburgh as well as the City of Newburgh Human Rights Commission.

“We owe Frederick Douglass a day here in Newburgh,” said Burton-Hill. “He spoke up for us.”

Not only is it critical to Burton-Hill for Douglass’ legacy to be remembered for his refusal to remain silent in the wake of injustice, but also for the precedent it set for one of our most powerful resources; the youth. In that spirit, Burton-Hill added a Youth Leadership Awards segment to this year’s program. Nine area young people were recognized for their unwavering commitments to being positive role models for their peers while making Newburgh a better place to live. Whether it was their belief in the power of education and academic accolades, leadership roles to guide others, community involvement to improve their surroundings or ability to overcome daunting challenges, each recipient displayed characteristics possessed by Douglass, ones capable of keeping the flame of hope alive as well as creating impactful change.

“I’m truly grateful to be recognized in honor of a man like Douglass, someone who used his voice to overcome adversity and make change,” said youth honoree, 2026 Newburgh Free Academy graduate, Desirae Rice. “This honor inspires me to make a positive difference in my community.”

Another recipient and 2026 NFA graduate, Jasmine Pinkney, carries with her Douglass’ spirit of fortitude and perseverance.

”I used to feel like I wasn’t seen, but I learned my voice matters,” said Pinkney relating her challenging but very rewarding path, aided by countless mentors. “I built up that voice and became a confident young adult.”

Other youth recognized with special certificates presented by New York State Senator, Rob Rolison, included; Anthonia Whitted, Javion Hill, Tesean Stewart and My Brother’s Keepers: Christian Bertrand, Hanif Inman, Akhiir McNeil and Taymere Mann.