Marronage, Freedom and Resistance in the African Diaspora in Sierra Leone
Through this international education program participants will explore the connection between the Gullah-Geechee communities in the United States and Sierra Leone, the departure point for thousands of enslaved people during the colonial era. Students will learn about the resistance to slavery, its abolition, and the establishment of a free society in Sierra Leone, including the settlement by African Americans who returned after generations in bondage. The program draws on the support of local partners and features prominent guest speakers and subject matter experts. Live virtual experiences and interactions with Sierra Leonean students are among the highlights of this immersive virtual program.
Gullah sweetgrass baskets are very similar to shuku Blay baskets made in sierra leone.
Virtual Program Components
Module 1 - Introduction to Sierra Leone and the Relics of Slavery
Live conversation: Amadu Massally, founder and CEO of Fambul Tik
Live virtual tour of Slave Castle at Bunce Island in Sierra Leone
Module 2 - Resistance to Slavery
Live conversation: Dr. Joseph Opala, “Rice and the Gullah-Geechee connection”
Live virtual tour of Old Yagala, site of resistance to slavery
Module 3 - Sweetgrass Baskets and Cultural Connections
Pre-recorded virtual tour of Rogbonko Village and a basket sewing presentation
Live presentation of traditional songs and dance skits
Module 4 - Sierra Leone Culture and the role of women
Live virtual tour and conversation with pastor of St. John’s Maroon Church in Freetown
Live conversation with Isata Kabia, a political leader and activist, “Role of Women in Sierra Leone”
Live panel with young Sierra Leonean women leaders and students
Why Learn from Travel
Learn from Travel is a social enterprise study abroad provider with a mission to enrich the traveler and the host. We provide life-changing international experiences for students and a valuable source of income for host country partners. During our virtual international education programs, we arrange engaging discussions with community leaders, directors of nonprofit organizations, and other local experts from whom your students will gain invaluable insight, preparing them for careers and life in an increasingly interdependent world.
Learn from Travel will arrange and facilitate all of the activities listed above. We will provide live translation when necessary. The activities described above can be modified to meet specific learning objectives and preferences.
