A Timely Message to the We the People Club
On January 7, 2026, members of the We the People Club heard a compelling presentation by Michael Muscari of the Frederick Douglass Republicans. His talk was more than a history lesson—it was a reminder of where America has been, where it stands now, and what is required of citizens in challenging times.
The Extraordinary Life of Frederick Douglass
Muscari traced the extraordinary life of Frederick Douglass, a man born into slavery who escaped bondage and went on to become one of the most influential voices for freedom, equality, and constitutional government in American history. Douglass was not only an abolitionist and powerful orator; he was also a founder and strong supporter of the Republican Party, which was formed in opposition to slavery and centralized tyranny.
Liberty, the Constitution, and Moral Courage
Douglass believed deeply in the principles of liberty, personal responsibility, and equal protection under the law. He viewed the Constitution as a moral document capable of defending natural rights when upheld by informed and courageous citizens. That historical reality, Muscari emphasized, is often ignored or distorted in today’s political conversations.
Why Douglass’s Legacy Matters Today
The heart of Muscari’s message focused on the relevance of Douglass’s legacy for our current moment. We live in a time marked by division, emotional politics, and ideological labels that often obscure shared values. In response to this, Muscari highlighted the guiding motto of the Frederick Douglass Republicans:
“Values Unite, Issues Divide”
Issues will always change. Policies will shift with time and circumstance. But values—faith, freedom, family, responsibility, honesty, and respect for the Constitution—are what anchor a nation. When people reconnect around shared values, meaningful dialogue becomes possible. Without them, division deepens.
The Call to Personal Responsibility
Muscari encouraged attendees not to remain passive. Frederick Douglass did not wait for others to fight for justice on his behalf. He educated himself, spoke boldly, and accepted responsibility for shaping the moral direction of his country. That same responsibility belongs to citizens today.
Civic Engagement Starts Locally
Civic engagement does not require holding office or speaking on a national stage. It begins locally and relationally—by becoming informed, asking hard questions, and sharing accurate information with friends, family, neighbors, and community networks. Cultural change spreads through personal conversations long before it appears at the ballot box.
Reclaiming Conservative Values as Lived Principles
Muscari’s call was clear: reclaim conservative values not as slogans, but as lived principles. Limited government, free speech, the rule of law, and individual accountability are not radical ideas—they are foundational ones. They are the very principles that allowed Frederick Douglass to envision an America capable of moral progress.
A Warning from History
History does not pause when citizens disengage. As Douglass himself warned, “power concedes nothing without a demand.” That demand begins with informed, active individuals willing to speak, share, and stand firm.
A Question for Each of Us
The question left for each of us is simple: how will we use the freedom we have been given?
Watch the video of Michael Muscari speaking at our meeting and share this blog and the video on social media for others to enjoy.