Emancipation Hall, US Capitol, Washington, D.C.
10′ x 3′ x 3′
Bronze
2007
This bronze sculpture of Frederick Douglass to commemorate the abolitionist, politician and publisher, who is seen here portrayed as an orator in the middle of giving a speech. Crumpled in his hand is the self-published North Star, the influential Black antislavery newspaper that Douglass founded, printed, and distributed himself. Gripping the lectern, lips pursed, about to say what needed to be said for hundreds of years, Douglass is shown moving forward, staring intently out as he is about to address the crowd. In this dynamic moment, we see a passionate, confident and determined Frederick Douglass stepping forward, forever leading the nation with his impassioned orations and profound writings.
Additional symbols can be found within the figure, including the chain on his vest, leading to the watch in his breast pocket, which speaks to time passing and issues for which he fought in this country that are still not eradicated now. The chain is oversized for a typical watch, representing the chains of bondage and Douglass’s early life as a child born into slavery. On the podium stands an ink pot and quill, representative of his prodigious and influential writings.
The sculpture was commissioned by the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities. It took a constitutional amendment, passed by both houses of Congress, and Presidential Signature, to allow the District of Columbia to place the statue of Frederick Douglass in the US Capitol. The dedication ceremony was officiated by then Vice President Joe Biden and House Speaker John Boehner. Also in attendance were Senators Chuck Schumer, Harry Reid, Mitch McConnell, Nancy Pelosi, and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes-Norton.