Thread by @Sifill_LDF

Like many who were enslaved when they were born, #FrederickDouglass did not know his birthdate. He adopted February 14th as his birthday. He remains among the most brilliant, fierce, eloquent, prescient Black leaders and American patriots in our history. Heed his words. 1/

In January 1865 Douglass gave a speech “What the Black Man Wants” in which he pressed for the right to vote. Among the reasons:
“I believe that when the tall heads of this Rebellion shall have been swept down...& blotted out, there will be this rank undergrowth.....” 2/

“...of treason... interfering with the quiet operation of the Federal Govt in those States. You will see traitors handing down, from sire to son, the same malignant spirit which they have manifested & which they are now exhibiting....with broad blades & bloody hands....” 3/

“That spirit will still remain...That enmity will not die out in a year, will not die out in an age...They will endeavor to circumvent, they will endeavor to destroy, the peaceful operation of this Government.” 4/

“Now, where will you find the strength to counterbalance this spirit, if you do not find it in the negroes of the South?”
Douglass understood before the Civil War was even over that American democracy and the integrity of the Republic could only be preserved with the Black vote.

We must end voter suppression and prioritize passage of #HR1 and #HR4 if this country is to save itself from the abyss. Call your Senators - every week at 202-224-3121.
Read Douglass’ “What the Black Man Wants” in full here:
loa-shared.s3.amazonaws.com/static/pdf/Dou…