Rochester, NY (July 6, 2020) –
The Frederick Douglass Foundation of New York (FDFNY) calls on the individual(s) who damaged the statue of Frederick Douglass on July 4, 2020 to turn yourselves in.
Peter Vazquez, President of the FDFNY says, “Let’s be clear, we at the Frederick Douglass Foundation of New York do not condone this behavior and will stand with the Rochester Police Department and community leaders to hold the perpetrators accountable to their actions.”
As President Trump stated, “We will never allow an angry mob to tear down our statues, erase our history, indoctrinate our children, or trample on our freedoms.We will safeguard our values, traditions, customs, and beliefs. We will teach our children to cherish and adore their country so that they can build its future. Together, we will fight for the American Dream.”
In his speech titled “The Meaning of July Fourth for the Negro”Frederick Douglass said, “I am not wanting in respect for the fathers of this republic. The signers of the Declaration of Independence were brave men.
They were great men, too great enough to give frame to a great age. It does not often happen to a nation to raise, at one time, such a number of truly great men. The point from which I am compelled to view them is not, certainly, the most favorable; and yet I cannot contemplate their great deeds with less than admiration.
They were statesmen, patriots and heroes, and for the good they did, and the principles they contended for, I will unite with you to honor their memory…. God speed the day when human blood. Shall cease to flow!In every clime
be understood,the claims of human brotherhood,and each return for evil, good,not blow for blow;that day will come all feuds to end,and change into a faithful friend,each foe.”
In the spirit of this great nation and all it stands for we at FDFNY have pledged to uphold the legacy of Frederick Douglass.
We will leverage teachable moments whenever possible and work with the authorities and community leaders to help educate (and hold accountable when necessary). Our intent is to increase support unities for conversation as we seek growth, understanding and unity.
For more information regarding FDFNY, please visit: www.fdfny.org.
If you would like to know what we are doing nationally at FDF National, please visit: www.fdfnational.org