Black Attorney/ Professor Releases New Book to Honor Protesters Who Died for Justice

Nationwide — Author, professor, and legal historian Gloria J. Browne-Marshall announced the creation of Martyrs Day, a national day of remembrance, honoring protesters who died in the struggle for justice and equality in the United States.

“The idea for Martyrs Day was born during my book tour for A Protest History of the United States as a day to honor those protesters and activists who lost their lives in the struggle for social justice and equality in the United States, says Browne-Marshall. “Now, I invite you to join me in celebrating the inaugural Martyrs Day on Sunday, July 5, 2026.”

“This country has seen so many people killed for the sake of equality under law,” said Browne-Marshall. “Or their deaths have sparked a major change in justice for all.” Martyrs Day would be observed annually on July 5, the day after Independence Day. The date was chosen to align with Frederick Douglass’ 1852 speech, “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?” which challenged the nation to live up to its ideals of freedom and equality.

“The United States of America was made great because of protesters,” said Browne-Marshall. “Protesting brought our rights from words on paper to reality in our daily lives.” The Martyrs Day website provides tools for local communities to create July 5th events. “On July 5th, we’ll remember and reflect on those members of our communities who stood up for social justice,” said Browne-Marshall. “Recognizing their invaluable contributions to our country is long overdue.”

The Martyrs Day movement also functions as a call to action. Communities across the country can commemorate deceased activists, organizers, and social justice leaders, from any era, whose work advanced equality, social justice, and civil rights. Martyrs Day encourages education, historical memory, and civic engagement.

Browne-Marshall is the author of “A Protest History of the United States” and has traveled nationwide discussing “Justice and Democracy: 250 Years of Protest.” This year is America’s 250th anniversary. The anniversary of the United States of America is based on the 1776 signing of The Declaration of Independence.

“The Declaration of Independence is a protest document,” stated Browne-Marshall. “By placing the observance immediately after July 4th, Martyrs Day offers a moment of reflection to honor the legacy of those Americans who helped this nation make freedom for all a reality and recommit ourselves to continuing the work they began.”

Learn more about Martyrs Day and ways to get involved at www.martyrsday.us

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Black Attorney/ Professor Releases New Book to Honor Protesters Who Died for Justice