Side A: Frederick Douglass, the formerly enslaved man celebrated as one of America’s most powerful abolitionist voices, delivered a historic commencement address at Western Reserve College on July 12, 1854. Invited by the graduating students of the Philozetian and Phi Delta literary societies, Douglass passionately delivered his two-hour speech, “The Claims of the Negro: Ethnologically Considered,” to a gathering of 3,000. Douglass challenged the rising tide of scientific racism and promoted the shared humanity and equality of all people. At a time when few Black Americans were granted such a platform, the moment embodied the spirit of abolition that defined the Western Reserve region. In an era of deep national division, the students’ bold invitation and Douglass’s powerful message affirmed education’s enduring role in advancing truth and justice.