Our Namesakes
At the Douglass Ridley School we chose two monumental individuals as the namesakes of our school to honor their lasting impact on education, justice, and Black intellectual life. Their legacies inspire the values at the heart of our school: curiosity, courage, community, and a commitment to liberation through learning.
Our Namesakes
Frederick Douglass was a powerful writer, speaker, and abolitionist who escaped slavery and dedicated his life to justice and education. He believed deeply in the power of reading, critical thinking, and using one’s voice for change.
At the Douglass Ridley School, we honor his legacy by fostering these same values—encouraging students to think boldly, speak confidently, and pursue knowledge as a path to freedom.
Our Namesakes
Florida Ruffin Ridley was a writer, educator, and activist who championed education and equity throughout her life. As a founder of the Woman’s Era Club—the first Black female literary society in Boston—she uplifted the values of literacy, leadership,
sisterhood, and social justice. She was also the second Black woman to teach in Boston Public Schools, paving the way for future generations. At the Douglass Ridley School, we carry her legacy forward by nurturing students who are curious, courageous, and committed to creating a more just world.
