Ahead of the 200th Anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade, the University of Bradford will be holding a free public lecture and exhibition on Friday 23 March 2007.
Sunday 25 March 2007 marks the 200th anniversary of the 1807 Abolition of the Slave Trade Act. This Act outlawed the slave trade throughout the British Empire and made it illegal for British ships to be involved in the trade, marking the beginning of the end for the transatlantic traffic in human beings.
The University of Bradford will host one of the first in a number of events to be held in Bradford throughout this year marking this 200th anniversary. A free event featuring a public lecture and exhibition on Friday 23 March 2007 will take place in the University’s Atrium between 11.30am and 1pm.
The keynote speaker will be Darcus Howe, broadcaster and columnist, who will give a lecture on ‘Rebel Slaves and Self Emancipation’. Darcus Howe is renowned for his role in the Channel 4 series ‘Devil’s Advocate’ in which he challenges traditional viewpoints.
Other speakers include Professor Jeff Lucas, Deputy-Vice Chancellor at the University of Bradford and Tony Reeves, Chief Executive of Bradford Metropolitan District Council.
The University of Bradford’s Race Champion and Professor of Diversity, Uduak Archibong, said: “In Bradford, our commemoration will seek to offer a different perspective on the achievement of abolition and the power of the incarcerated in achieving justice. We need to listen to the voices of those underneath demanding change.
“Whilst we are celebrating the end of the slave trade as we knew it since 1807, we must also double up our efforts in addressing the slave trade as it exists today.”
Professor Chris Taylor, Vice-Chancellor of University of Bradford, said: “The bicentenary is an important opportunity to reflect on the struggles of the past, the progress we have made and the challenges that remain.”
For more information about forthcoming events and activities, please contact Kellie Young at the University of Bradford on 01274 236448 or email diverstyudy@bradford.ac.uk
