Hi Arthur
Re: the teaching of history of the slave period, I
have come across so many attempts that both white and
Black teachers have introduced, but both sides of the
divide still shy away from the heart of subject.
The whites seem to think that their attempts are
credable, and in some cases meaningful, while the
Black children feel some form of embarrassment, What
we need to do is discuss a new formula that will allow
children and many adults realise that, not all Blacks
were slaves and there was also white slavery.
The economic factors, which will lead to refugees,
immigration and migration of all peoples. So little is
told of the millions from Britain who today are in
foreign countries like Africe, India and the
Caribbean.
How they lived in isolation, segregating themselves
from the nationals of those countries.
The economic gains derived from slavery for Britain
and Europe through slavery and immigration could be
done within curriculum studies, but the presentation
is crucial in order to grip and sustain the interest
of students. At the moment teaching such subjects are
just to patronising to say the least.
With the interest now shown in Black History Month, we
must also spread the period that it becomes a daily
part of life and the curriculum, before we ghettoise
it.
We cannot leave out the white structures in this
development as they are the majority and many need to
understand what we are advocating. The question we
must ask ourselves is , who should lead?
I am concerned that the authorities in wanting to
spearhead change only use us as advisors and not
leaders. The few pounds thwy hand out are not easy to
have, because they are again the decision makers as to
what is good and acceptable.
It's nice of you to be tackling these matters.
Best wishes
Alex
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