Truth is proper and beautiful in all times and in all places.

Abolitionist and author Frederick Douglass was devoted to the pursuit of truth: He published two autobiographies on his life in slavery, and was the founder and publisher for The North Star, an anti-slavery newspaper. Douglass was a lifelong advocate for the rights of Black Americans, serving as the first Black U.S. Marshal and on the board of trustees of Howard University. He spoke these words at the unveiling of a monument to Abraham Lincoln, explaining that it is important to recognize the shortcomings of Lincoln’s tenure alongside his accomplishments. Douglass reminds us that while the truth may not always be comfortable, we gain great insight from understanding the nuances of reality.