David Shakes paid a visit to McQuaid on Tuesday, where he spoke to the Class of 2021 about the importance of Frederick Douglass in the local community and Douglass’ importance in the greater African American community.

David Shakes spoke to the current juniors in their English classes Tuesday, Oct. 15. This visit comes after the Class of 2021 read The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass earlier this year.

Shakes primarily focused on Douglass’ early years as a slave. Shakes notes, “Douglass went from an enslaved person, considered property under the institution of american slavery but he emerged from that, and was able to transform himself into one of the largest world-changing figures, one of the strongest voices speaking truth to power. That is incredible to me.”

Mr. David Shakes talking to the Class of 2021
Photo courtesy of Mr. Patrick Depippo ‘05

David Shakes is a well known Frederick Douglass impersonator, theater director, co-director, and producer. Most notable for his most recent production “No Struggle, No Progress”, Shakes has been involved in the arts for more than 35 years.

When asked about how drama and theater helps him understand the struggle for social equality and help inspire change in our community, Shakes responded quickly: “Yes! Absolutely. It’s as some people say a shield and a weapon against negativity. It’s a way to look at ourselves and our society and take a look back. It’s not just on a screen. It’s using real people and using real, fiery words that fill the air.  And I love doing it.”

Shakes also talks on the importance of education and the drive Douglass had to get an education, and to help others do the same, encouraging others to think critically. Shakes emphasized how reading and writing were illegal as a slave, and that many forget how dangerous it was to do so illegally.

Living in Rochester New York, Frederick Douglass’ history is very prevalent. Escaping slavery, Douglass made his way up from Talbot Maryland before landing in Rochester New York and starting his own newspaper, the NorthStar Press in 1843. Frederick Douglass holds an important part of Rochester’s history and is not well known in the local community. Frederick Douglass is buried in Mt. Hope Cemetery.