
On Monday, we celebrated the legacy of a remarkable man whose life’s journey inspires us all. Frederick Douglass, the iconic anti-slavery campaigner, has been immortalized in a stunning statue unveiled in Belfast, a city he held close to his heart.
Born into the chains of slavery, Douglass defied all odds and escaped to freedom in 1838. His indomitable spirit led him to become a prominent leader of the abolitionist movement in America, where his eloquence in speeches and writings ignited a flame of change that spread far and wide.
In a testament to the impact he made, Frederick Douglass visited Belfast in 1845, invited by the Belfast Anti-Slavery Society. The visit left a profound mark on the city, and he returned the following year for a second visit, cementing his bond with the people he loved.
In the heart of Belfast’s city centre, the magnificent statue of Frederick Douglass stands tall in Lombard Street. The statue not only commemorates a former slave but also pays homage to a gifted writer and statesman who played a crucial role in shaping history.
Share this post to spread the word and remember the timeless words of Frederick Douglass: “If there is no struggle, there is no progress.” #FrederickDouglassStatue #BelfastUnveiling #InspirationForAll 🗽🌟

I visited Belfast last year and will return. Grateful for Prof. Christine Kinealy (Director of Ireland’s Great Hunger Institute, Quinnipiac University), Dennis Brownlee (African-American-Irish Diaspora Network), Prof. Kipton Jensen (Morehouse College) and others for this important work.