The burden of history

On 25 March 1807 a Parliamentary Bill was passed to abolish the slave trade in the then British Empire. The bill was the beginning of the end of the transatlantic traffic in human beings.

Slavery was once considered an acceptable part of the economic system. Many countries in Europe and the wider world profited and prospered from the trade of goods produced by enslaved labour.

Brent Libraries, Arts and Heritage will be marking the 200th anniversary of its end as an opportunity to reflect on the struggles and horrors of the past with a programme of events.

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Commemorative Evening
Willesden Green Library, 23 March, 6.30pm
The evening will begin with a selection of spiritual songs from the Accapella singers. Brent Mayor Councillor Bertha Joseph will then introduce local author Paul Crooks. Paul’s book ‘Ancestors’ was inspired by his family history in Jamaica.

Born, raised and still living in Brent, Paul will be discussing why it is important for him as an African Caribbean to observe the 2007 bicentennial commemoration. During the evening a statement of commitment will be signed by the Mayor, Leader of the Council, Councillor Paul Lorber and others symbolizing Brent’s commitment to ensuring the horrors of slavery will never be forgotten.

For free tickets please call 020 8937 3144.

An evening with Shaun Wallace
Willesden Green Library, 26 March, 7-8pm
“If we stand tall it’s because we stand on the backs of those that have come before us”, Yoruba proverb. All adults are welcome to participate in an evening of inspiring talks and debate led by Shaun Wallace, the first black winner of Mastermind.

Pottery workshop with Chris Bramble
Willesden Green Library, 24 March, 2-3.30pm
This family event invites residents of all ages to participate in a creative pottery workshop to commemorate the abolition of slavery. Please book in advance.

S.I. Martin
Harlesden Library, 29 March, 7.30-9pm
Author of ‘Britain’s Slave Trade’ S.I. Martin will be discussing ‘London and the transatlantic slave trade’. This is an adult event.

Tuup
Harlesden Library, 17 March, 2-3pm
The celebrated storyteller Godfrey Duncan, AKA Tuup, will be recounting some of his stories and poems to reflect and remember slavery. All the family are welcome.

All of these events are free.
For further information please call 020 8937 2516 or go to www.brent.gov.uk/libraryservice or www.brentbrain.org