IVLP: Facing the History of Slavery
During the week of November 14th-17th, the World Affairs hosted 10 international delegates from Ghana. These delegates were learning about local organizations that foster education about the history of slavery, the preservation of cultural and historic landmarks, and the importance of Black influence on American culture.
They met with Dr. Childs from Northern Kentucky University, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, the Harriet Beecher Stowe Museum, Taft Museum, and the John Rankin House.
Dr. Childs (NKU) with delegates
These international delegates were museum curators from Ghana. In their positions, they preserve cultural heritage sites where Ghanians were taken and held before being trafficked to America.
While every meeting was important to the delegates, the most moving meeting was the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center invited the Executive Director Christina Hartlieb to join the meeting.
Christina Hartlieb (Executive Director of the Harriet Beecher Stowe House) presenting the routes of the Underground Railroad
In the meeting’s first part, Christina Hartlieb provided an overview of U.S. slavery history, then discussed the Beecher Stowe House, its role as a safe haven for Black Americans, and the importance of abolitionists.
A key takeaway for the delegates was that restoring historic landmarks doesn’t alter history but preserves their appearance to reflect their original significance. Hartlieb also emphasized that stewardship involves using modern technology and techniques to protect and preserve these sites.
The visit to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center deeply moved the delegates. After touring the museum, they discussed how it completed the story of Ghanaians kidnapped and trafficked to America, highlighting their suffering beyond the horrors of the forts in Ghana.
Delegates by the Eternal Flame at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center.
The delegates expressed interest in creating partnerships to connect their stories, including exchange programs, shared exhibitions, and conferences.
The stories of Africans brought to the U.S. through the slave trade remain crucial to discuss, as their impact has lasted over 400 years. The focus on European history often overlooks Black Americans’ contributions to history, sociology, religion, economics, politics, psychology, and the arts. Reclaiming Black history is essential for fully appreciating current American culture.
“The (IVLP) program fosters connections and sparks new ideas and empowers individuals to effect changes.” – Mrs. Akousa Buckman, Ghana, IVLP participant.
Delegates overlooking the Ohio River in Ripley, OH at the John Rankin House
