Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County
News Release
(Friday, Feb. 9, 2018) – Mayor Lovely A. Warren and the Rochester Public Library invite the community to celebrate the bicentennial anniversary of the birth of famed abolitionist and Rochester’s favorite son, Frederick Douglass, by participating in upcoming events at the Central Library and the Frederick Douglass Community Library. Events are scheduled throughout the year as Mayor Warren has proclaimed 2018 “The Year of Frederick Douglass.” Frederick Douglass’ chosen birthday is Feb. 14.
“While Rochester has long honored the Douglass legacy, this year-long bicentennial anniversary celebration is a unique opportunity to foster pride as a city of freedom fighters, both past and present,” said Mayor Warren. “Douglass would be proud to see his adopted hometown today as we have made great strides in creating jobs, bringing vibrancy to our neighborhoods and creating better educational opportunities for all of our residents. While we know that our work is not done, we look forward to Rochester’s future with optimism, inspired by the legacy of Frederick Douglass at the forefront of our minds and hearts. I invite everyone to enjoy the free activities happening at our libraries and at many other venues throughout the city.”
Events and exhibit information is as follows:
• “Women in the World of Frederick Douglass,” 1 to 2:30 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 10, Central Library’s Rundel Memorial Building, 115 South Ave.: The library’s Local History and Genealogy Division presents a free discussion with Leigh Fought, author of “Women in the World of Frederick Douglass,” in the 2nd floor conference room of the Rundel Memorial Building. Fought, professor of history at LeMoyne College, will discuss the role women played in Frederick Douglass’ life and how they influenced his activism. For information, visit www.libraryweb.org or call (585) 428-8366.
• Birthday Party Celebrating Frederick Douglass, 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 14, Frederick Douglass Community Library, 971 South Ave.: The Frederick Douglass Community Library is hosting a party to celebrate Frederick Douglass’ 200th birthday. Robert Djed Snead will perform as Reverend Jermain Loguen, a Douglass contemporary, and will speak about abolitionism, the Underground Railroad and the importance of education and community involvement. Patrons can sign a birthday card for Mr. Douglass and enjoy light refreshments. This free event was made possible by the generous support of the Friends and Foundation of the Rochester Public Library. Learn more at www.FFRPL.org.
• Frederick Douglass Re-Enactment, 3:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16, Frederick Douglass Community Library, 971 South Ave.: The community is invited to the Frederick Douglass Community Library to enjoy a dynamic Frederick Douglass re-enactment, performed by Nathan Richardson. Richardson is a nationally-recognized poet and performer who will recite one of Frederick Douglass’ speeches and answer questions from the audience as Mr. Douglass. This free event was made possible by the generous support of the Friends and Foundation of the Rochester Public Library.
• “Frederick Douglass’ Rochester: Mapping His Tracks in Our City.” Exhibit open through Aug. 31, Central Library’s Rundel Memorial Building, 115 South Ave.: The Rochester Public Library/Local History and Genealogy Division invites the public to explore a new mini exhibit: “Frederick Douglass’ Rochester: Mapping His Tracks in Our City.” This exhibit, displayed on the 2nd floor of the Rundel Memorial Building, was created in conjunction with the Division’s current exhibit on Rochester’s bicentennial and centennial anniversaries. Douglass once wrote that he would always feel more at home in Rochester than anywhere else in the country, and this exhibit highlights the spaces and places that informed his life in the Flower City. This free exhibit is open during library hours: Mon., 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Tues., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Wed., 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Thurs., 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed on Sunday). Call (585) 428-8370 for more information.
Numerous community events are also being planned throughout the year by members of the Frederick Douglass Bicentennial Commemoration Committee, led by Rochester Community Television and Rochester Contemporary Art Center. The Committee includes the City of Rochester, Monroe County, dozens of cultural and educational institutions as well as private citizens, artists and activists committed to highlighting and preserving the legacy of Frederick Douglass. Visit www.cityofrochester.gov/FrederickDouglass200 for a schedule of events and more information.
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News Media: For more information, contact Press Officer Jessica Alaimo, 428-7135.