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It's good to talk
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Niamh O´Donnell and Fran Brownlie are shown round Wilberforce House by Jon Pywell of Hull Museums |
Two teenagers from Hull and the East Riding are championing a national debate which aims to encourage young people to learn and understand more about slavery.
Niamh O'Donnell and Fran Brownlie, both aged 13, are encouraging young people at schools and youth groups in Hull and across the country to take part in the Big Conversation 2007.
The project organisers are asking 14-year-olds why they should commemorate the transatlantic slave trade, and how they can learn from the history of slavery to celebrate Britain's modern multi-cultural society.
Those taking part can submit an article, audio interview or short film. The debate is being organised by the Department for Children, Schools and Families with the backing of Hull City Council and a museums educational body called Understanding Slavery.
"It's important that young people are given a chance to put forward their views," said Niamh, who is working alongside her teachers at St Mary's College in Cranbrook Avenue to co-ordinate her school's entry into the conversation.
Niamh was asked to become a national champion of the debate along with Fran – who is from Swanland - because of the passionate interest they showed in slavery, history, and questions of modern citizenship during a recent visit to Wilberforce House.
"The slave trade and its abolition are an integral part of Hull's history and it is very important that young people understand its impact on our local communities," said Jon Pywell, head of education and lifelong learning at Hull Museums.
Prizes are available for the best entries.
The closing date for entries is October 19.
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