Congressman Byron Donalds, who represents Florida’s 19th district in the U.S. Congress, recently shared a series of tweets highlighting the achievements and legacy of Frederick Douglass. The tweets commemorate Douglass’s contributions to journalism and his role as an abolitionist icon.
On June 19, 2025, Congressman Donalds announced that his resolution to name the House Press Gallery after Frederick Douglass had passed. He stated, “Not only is Frederick Douglass an abolitionist icon & an American hero, but he was the first Black reporter admitted to the House Press Gallery.” Donalds noted that this decision coincides with Juneteenth celebrations honoring those who fought to end slavery.
In another tweet on the same day, Donalds provided historical context about Douglass’s life. He mentioned that “Frederick Douglass was born into slavery in 1818. After courageously escaping bondage in 1838, he built a life dedicated to truth, liberty, and justice.” The congressman highlighted Douglass’s work as a journalist in Rochester, New York, where he launched The North Star newspaper using his own resources.
Further elaborating on Douglass’s career trajectory following adversity, Donalds tweeted that after an arson attack destroyed his home in Rochester, “he moved to Washington, D.C. and became editor — and later owner — of the New National Era.” This publication focused on chronicling Black progress across America. Additionally, Donalds reiterated that Douglass was recognized as the first Black reporter admitted to the Capitol.
Byron Donalds has been serving in Congress since replacing Francis Rooney in 2021. Before this role, he served in the Florida House of Representatives from 2016 to 2020. Born in Brooklyn in 1978 and currently residing in Naples at age 44, Donalds holds degrees from both Florida A&M University and Florida State University.
