WEST CHESTER, PA — West Chester Mayor Lillian DeBaptiste will deliver the Sixth Annual Dr. Clifford E. DeBaptiste Frederick Douglass Institute Lecture on Thursday, October 2, at 3 p.m. in Philips Autograph Library at West Chester University. Her address, titled “The Struggle for Democracy and Justice in America: What Would Frederick Douglass Do?”, is free and open to the public.
An alumna of West Chester University, DeBaptiste was sworn in on January 3, 2022, as the first Black woman to serve as mayor of the borough. She follows in the footsteps of her father, Dr. Clifford E. DeBaptiste, who made history in 1994 as West Chester’s first African American mayor and is the benefactor of the lecture series.
Beyond her role as mayor, DeBaptiste is president and director of DeBaptiste Funeral Home and Milestone Events, a licensed funeral director since 1973, and an active community leader. She has served on numerous local boards and was instrumental in launching events such as West Chester’s Juneteenth celebration, the borough’s 225th anniversary festivities, and the inaugural Porchfest. She is currently working with the Public Arts Commission to develop a mural in recognition of America’s 250th anniversary.
The lecture series honors the legacy of abolitionist and statesman Frederick Douglass, who delivered his last public address at West Chester University. Established through the generosity of Dr. Clifford DeBaptiste, the series examines issues of social justice through the lens of Douglass’s enduring call for equality.
Free parking for the event will be available at Sharpless Street Garage, with gates open to all attendees after 5 p.m.
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