It was gratifying to read the recent Gazette article “Senate chamber to honor Douglass with new bust” [Feb. 12]. I felt proud that Frederick Douglass, who grew up suffering as a slave but became a champion of freedom and equality, has received this recognition as a man of high honor by the state of Massachusetts.

His bust that was recently placed in the State House not only honors him as the first Black man to have such a statue in this building, but also is an important gesture that helps to address a historic injustice against all people who were formerly enslaved. The expression on his face captures some of the intensity and determination behind his words, which are also written on the walls of the State House: “Truth, justice, liberty, and humanity will ultimately prevail.”

Frederick Douglass is truly a significant contributor to greater justice, and he well deserves to be recognized as one of our country’s important leaders, in the esteemed company of George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Abraham Lincoln. It’s very appropriate that Massachusetts has chosen to recognize him in this way.

Sidney Moss

Northampton