Reading Frederick Douglass

Vermont communities host public readings of the abolitionist’s moving Independence Day speech.

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Our Programs

The Vermont Humanities Council strives to make Vermont a state in which every individual reads, participates in public affairs, and continues to learn throughout life. Learn more about our programs.

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Vermont Reads 2017

Brown Girl Dreaming, by Jacqueline Woodson. Learn more.
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Speakers Bureau

Host a thought-provoking presentation in your town! See our catalogue.
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Reading Frederick Douglass

Public readings of Douglass’s Fourth of July speech. Learn more.

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Literacy Programs

Designed for specific underserved and at-risk audiences. Learn more.

Upcoming Events

Mon 26

Veterans Place Book Group

June 26
12:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Veterans Place,
This group is led by Michael Heaney, retired history professor and Vietnam veteran. Registration is now closed. Read More »
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Mon 26

Life in a Jar: The Irena Sendler Project

June 26
7:00 pm
Enosburg Falls United Methodist Church,
Dr. Jack Mayer tells the story of Irena Sendler, a holocaust hero who rescued 2,500 children from the Warsaw ghetto. Sendler’s story remained unknown after the war—until three Kansas teens uncovered a reference to her heroism 60 years later. Read More »
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Thu 29

Reading Frederick Douglass – Norwich

June 29
6:30 pm
Norwich Green and Bandstand,
Join us as we read together the fiery July 5, 1852 speech in which the great abolitionist orator Frederick Douglass took exception to being asked to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This is a participatory event. Community members are invited to witness and/or join in the reading. Copies of the speech will Read More »
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Fri 30

Reading Frederick Douglass – St. Johnsbury

June 30
6:00 pm
Catamount Arts,
Join us as we read together the fiery July 5, 1852 speech in which the great abolitionist orator Frederick Douglass took exception to being asked to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This is a participatory event. Community members are invited to witness and/or join in the reading. Copies of the speech will Read More »
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