Yale professor Laura Wexler said Frederick Douglas saw the then-newly invented field of photography as an important tool in ending slavery in 1860s America.

“Douglass believed photography could help black men in their quest to end slavery,” Wexler said. “Photography showed mankind the right vision, it helped represent the feelings of those who were being suppressed.”

Wexler, a professor of American studies and co-director of the Yale Public Humanities program, gave a Clarke Forum lecture on the importance of photography. She explained that photography is an emblem of human progress, which was exemplified through Frederick Douglass’s, “Pictures and Progress.”

Douglass, who was a nineteenth century abolitionist, believed he could inspire others and help portray the pride of being African American through photography.

“Although [Douglass] was concerned with how much photography could actually replenish the country’s problems, he thought it was a strong way of depicting strength,” Wexler said.

Kayleigh Rhatigan ’19 says the lecture enlightened her about a part of Douglass’ life that she had not known before.

“I knew nothing about Frederick Douglass’s theories about photography before Professor Wexler came, and it was really fascinating to find out new things about an American icon like Douglass.”

Douglass was known for taking various self-portraits of himself throughout his life. “Douglass thought it was important for black people to have pictures of themselves that represented their personality and beauty,” says Wexler.

“Douglass ultimately believed photography would dissolve the barriers of power, and bring the world peace and unity,” Wexler said. “Photography would crown the world with justice, liberty, and brotherly kindness,” she continued.

Ashley Tuciewicz ’19 thought that the presentation was “enjoyably intriguing and thought-provoking.” Photography, she says, is a “medium that can shape both political and social technology.”

Wexler noted that Douglass extrapolated from modern photography, but tried to use his images to resolve societal issues.

Douglas once said, in reference to photography, “He who despairs of progress, despairs the hope of the world,” explained Wexler.

The lecture was sponsored by the Clarke Forum for Contemporary Issues and Phi Beta Kappa. It was held on Nov. 10 in the Stern Center from 7-8:30 p.m.