“Black Freedom Suits and the Declaration of Independence”

The Declaration of Independence asserted that “all men are created equal” and have natural rights and the right of self-government by consent. Slavery contradicted these core principles of the Declaration of Independence as America’s creedal document. Using the Declaration of Independence as their “North Star,” they launched “freedom petitions” and “freedom suits,” making a claim on natural rights with unexpected and surprising outcomes. Part one of the 2026 Spring Speaker Series. Tickets required.