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)
Well written, with a strong cadence. I could imagine it moving a crowd if spoken by an able orator. Sometimes we need that kind of experience, even in these days with the world in our pocket. Thank you!
Very nice, and very inspiring! Thank you!