February 14 Is Douglass Day!

Each year, in honor of the great African American statesman Frederick Douglass (1818–1895), thousands of volunteers across the globe transcribe primary documents and create new, freely available resources for learning about Black history. Douglass Day frequently focuses on important Black women’s archives, such as those of Anna Julia Cooper (2020), Mary Church Terrell (2021) and Mary Ann Shadd Cary (2023). This year, however, Douglass Day will focus on the man himself and the transcription of the Frederick Douglass Papers: General Correspondence, 1841 to 1912, held by the Library of Congress.

How to participate:
On Wednesday, February 14, from 12 to 3 p.m., participants can visit DouglassDay.org, be directed to a primary document (perhaps even one written by hand!) and then carefully type its content into a special field. No special skills are needed.

Why participate in Douglass Day?
Douglass Day is a great opportunity to learn more about American history; celebrate Black History Month; and teach students about the use of primary documents, archives and historical preservation. And it’s fun!

If you plan to organize a group of NOVA students, staff or faculty, please contact Susan Monroe (SMonroe@nvcc.edu), who will supply your group with completion stickers (as long as supplies last).  

Submitted by:
Susan Monroe, AL-English, SMonroe@nvcc.edu