2011
African Meeting House
Museum of African American History
This Frederick Douglass quote is engraved on a commemorative pillar outside the African Meeting House. The quote comes from Douglass’ speech, “How can American Slavery be Abolished?,” during a meeting at the African Meeting House on December 3, 1860.
Questions to Consider
- What methods does Frederick Douglass state abolitionists should use to end slavery? Why do you think he suggested these methods
- Why do you think the Museum of African American History chose to include this quote on the commemorative pillar?
Transcription
This is a meeting to discuss the best method of abolishing slavery, and each speaker is expected to present what he regards as the best way of prosecuting the anti-slavery movement… All methods of proceeding against slavery, politics, religion, peace, war, Bible, Constitution, disunion, union – every possible way known in opposition to slavery is my way.
Frederick Douglass, December 3, 1860
“How can American Slavery be Abolished?”