What to the Silent Sufferers Is the Fourth of July? Reimagining Frederick Douglass

Introduction:

What does freedom mean when health is denied? In this poetic reimagining of Frederick Douglass’ timeless speech, I reflect on who the “silent sufferers” are today – those denied health equity and dignity. Health is Wealth. Until all can live strong and free, Independence remains unfinished.

Inspired by “What to a Slave is the Fourth of July” by Frederick Douglases (1852). Echos from history…. repeating in 21st century:

What to the Silent Sufferers Is the Fourth of July? Reimagining Frederick Douglass

By Stephen B. Thomas, PhD

Preamble

“Who are the silent sufferers of this bill marketed as beautiful? Those denied health equity and dignity.”

“Health is Wealth.”

This truth is older than empires, older than kings. It is the birthright that true freedom brings.

Reimagining Frederick Douglass :

You ask me to join your celebration

Of fireworks bright with liberation

But what is this day to those still bound

By silent chains that circle ‘round?

You cheer freedom in the summer night

But freedom without justice isn’t right

Your flags wave over city and farm

While some live with sickness as daily harm

You speak of wealth in dollars and gold

But Health is Wealth – that truth is old

Older than pyramids, older than thrones

Health is the foundation of all we own

For what is freedom without health span strong?

Not just years counted, but years lived long

Years with dignity, laughter, and grace

A life lived fully in its rightful place

Yet in this nation of promise and pride

Health equity remains denied

When hospitals close and clinics flee

When food deserts grow where gardens should be

Here is where Nepenthe’s vine takes root

The mythical elixir, the ancient truth

Healing not just body, but spirit and mind

Restoring the dignity so long confined

Nepenthe – plant of sorrow’s release

Bringing our communities wholeness and peace

Not charity offered from towers above

But sovereignty, ownership, and love

We are building a future where Health is Wealth

Where our knowledge, our labor, restore our health

A cooperative rising from soil and seed

Rooted in justice, not profit or greed

So yes, light your fireworks into the sky

But light your conscience too, and ask why

Why freedom’s promise rings hollow and dry

When health is still rationed by color and gender

For until every child drinks water clean

Until every elder’s dignity is seen

Until health equity is more than a dream

This Fourth remains a fractured theme

But hear this hope through Douglass’ lament

We are Nepenthe – healing sent

To dissolve the sorrow, restore what was lost

To reclaim our health span, no matter the cost

Health is Wealth – our unbreakable creed

Our ancestors’ wisdom, our children’s need

On that day when all live strong and free

Then Independence will truly be.

Reflections

Today, let us celebrate not only freedom won, but freedom yet to be fulfilled – the freedom of health, dignity, and life itself.

Comment below:

What does Health is Wealth mean in your life and work? How are you building health equity in your community?

Health Is Wealth

Stephen (DrT)