Agitate! Agitate! Agitate!: American University Students Breathe New Life into Frederick Douglass's Forgotten Call to Action

In a powerful fusion of history, activism, and cinematic storytelling, students from American University's School of Communication (AU SOC) have unveiled a poignant short film that resurrects Frederick Douglass's stirring 1870 commencement speech. Titled "Agitate! Agitate! Agitate!: The Fredrick Douglass Speech," the film brings to light Douglass's impassioned plea for civil rights, delivered at what is now the site of AU's Washington College of Law.

This ambitious project, born from an advanced multimedia workshop, showcases the incredible talent and dedication of AU's emerging filmmakers.

The film was skillfully directed by graduate students J.R. Frost and Kelsye Rooks, who led their team in capturing the essence and enduring relevance of Douglass's words. Their work not only educates but also inspires, reminding audiences of the timeless struggle for justice.

Douglass's original speech, often overlooked in historical narratives, was a fervent exhortation to action, urging his audience to continuously "Agitate! Agitate! Agitate!" for equality and human dignity.

By bringing this speech to life, the AU students have highlighted a crucial moment in civil rights history and underscored its resounding applicability to contemporary social issues.

The creation of the film was a collaborative effort, generously supported by the Frederick Douglass Project and guided by Professor Dotan Hammel, with Susan Lewis serving as producer.

This multidisciplinary approach allowed students to delve deep into historical research, develop compelling narratives, and master the technical intricacies of film production, all while honoring Douglass's legacy.

The film is set to premiere on October 24, 2025, at AU's Washington College of Law, offering a unique opportunity for the community to witness this remarkable historical revival.

Through their dedication, these students have not only created a significant work of art but have also ensured that Douglass's vital message continues to resonate with new generations, urging us all to never cease in the fight for justice and equality.