Resource guide highlights enslaved persons
A new teacher resource guide highlights the contributions of two enslaved people to the abolitionist movement.
A spokeswoman for the National Museum of Bermuda, which published Freedom narratives of enslaved Bermudians Mary Prince and Benjamin Benson, said the guide included “historical summaries, timelines, key terms and classroom activities, including object-based inquiry and art activities to engage students in critical and historical thinking and contextualise Bermuda’s history through an Atlantic World lens”.
The guide covers several topics, including the lives of Mary Prince, a Bermuda National Hero, and Mr Benson, whose respective books The History of Mary Prince and A Narrative of the Life of Benjamin Benson chronicled the daily life of enslaved persons in the Atlantic, the roles their narratives played in the abolitionist movement and Bermuda’s maritime economy.
Elena Strong, the executive director at NMB, said the museum’s free guides and workshops for teachers were part of its educational strategy and “commitment to equitable access to history”.
She added: “All of our education and community programmes promote critical and creative thinking and seeing multiple perspectives; skills that help us all navigate an increasingly complex world.
“We believe this resource will be invaluable in helping students connect with the personal stories of those who lived through and fought against enslavement, foster a deeper appreciation for the history of human rights and social justice, and develop a better sense of Bermuda’s significant role in the history of the Atlantic world and how it has shaped who we are today.”
The spokeswoman thanked the museum’s education committee for forming the guide’s educational components; researchers Clarence Maxwell and Neil Kennedy for reviewing its historical elements; donors to the museum’s annual fund; as well as Anchor Fund and Future of History campaign donors.
Supporters such as Allied World Assurance Company and the Bermuda Community Foundation were also thanked.
The guide can be downloaded through the NMB website, nmb.bm, where there is also more information about the museum’s educational initiatives.