#DouglassWeek (#DW) is an annual event series celebrating the inspiration of Frederick Douglass around the world. The week includes discussions, performances, exhibitions and events designed to promote transatlantic collaboration and engagement. We organize #DW with a wide network of partners to highlight and respond to the influence of Douglass and other changemakers through historical, creative, academic and other lenses.

In 2022, GLI launched “Douglass Dialogues: Conversations with Changemakers,” ongoing programming that will feature in-depth, intimate conversations with leaders, creatives, changemakers, agitators and others making a difference in the spirit of Frederick and Anna Douglass and the work of the Douglass family. These conversations and in-depth discussions with leaders, creatives, community activists and others inspiring change in the spirit of the Douglass family will be made available to the public in the future in a podcast format.

Journeys For Freedom is GLI’s home to educational projects including:
• The Cork Abolitionists Trail: Currently (Feb 2023) distributing printed maps in Cork and developing interactive resources, physical markers and expansion in Ireland, the US and worldwide.
• School outreach: Includes development of a Douglass/abolitionism curriculum for Irish students, mural creation and pen pal programs between Irish and American students.
• Children’s book: Members of the GLI board have come together to commemorate Douglass and inspire younger generations by Douglass not only by developing a school curriculum but also, in collaboration with a variety of international artist, to narrate, illustrate and publish and children’s book to make Douglass life and achievements accessible to readers from an early age onwards.

DOUGLASS (music album)
Inspired by Douglass’ legacy and journey to Ireland, this music album, to be released in 2024, features folk, rap, Broadway and contemporary musicians from Ireland, Northern Ireland and US. Thee album has been in the making since 2021 and first singles will be released and performed during #DW24.

“Trans-Art-Lantic” is a collaborative mural project, aimed at bringing together international muralists and street artists with local schools and the community. The project seeks to address themes of diversity, creative approaches to fighting racism and discrimination, and building bridges between different cultures. Through this collaborative effort, the project aims to inspire a sense of unity and shared understanding among the participants and the wider community. By bringing artists and the community together, the project hopes to create a space for dialogue and reflection, where individuals can express their views and experiences while promoting a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect. Trans-Art-Lantic is an ambitious long-term project that aims to make a positive impact on the local community and beyond by inviting new artists of any age and background each year to join the existing team and to expand the existing artwork as well as create new ones in each new DouglassWeek city.