Researchers at the University of Hull’s Wilberforce Institute are helping to tackle slavery in Sierra Leone – by utilising the power of culture.
The team will implement and develop arts initiatives in Hull’s twin city, Freetown, to help raise awareness of the triggers that can lead to people becoming trapped in modern-day slavery. Original and innovative arts projects will be established in a variety of formats – including performances, storytelling and exhibitions – and will be targeted across a range of ages.
Professor John Oldfield, Director of the Wilberforce Institute for the study of Slavery and Emancipation at the University of Hull, explained: “It is estimated that there are at least 40million people trapped in slavery across the world today. Contemporary slavery is a huge and complex problem requiring a multi-faceted approach; with this project we are looking at potential ways slavery could be prevented.
“By educating citizens to the potential danger points that could lead to them becoming enslaved it is hoped that the project will help people avoid becoming trapped in the first place. We also hope that help younger audiences become empowered to go on to shape the future of their communities.”