Introduction

Introduction

Throughout 2007, Bristol commemorated the bicentenary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act. Thousands of people attended over 200 related events at venues all over the city ranging from thought-provoking exhibitions and plays to lively debates, talks and  concerts. A major slave trade exhibition, ‘Breaking the Chains’ at the British Empire and Commonwealth Museum tells the story of Britain's involvement in the slave trade using artefacts, film and testimony and has received over 50,000 visitors since it opened. The programme for the year aimed to raise awareness of the history of slavery, recognize its resonance today and act as a catalyst for positive change for the future. Read Bristol City Council's Motion of Commemoration here.

Legacy

A legacy report from the Abolition 200 steering committee outlining the outcomes from the year and recommendations for the future was presented to the city council in December. A copy of this report can be downloaded below under 'related documents'. On February 26th 2008 the council allocated £250,000 in the 2007/08 budget to fund legacy projects to make Bristol more inclusive by tackling inequality - in particular through strengthened education, training and cultural opportunities for African Caribbean residents.

Abolition 200 Wallplanner 2008

Bristol City Council has produced an attractive 2008 Wallplanner featuring some of  the most memorable images from the Abolition 200 year of commemoration. Download a pdf of a miniature version here or from the list of related documents at the foot of this page. If you would like a full size copy (A1 portrait), please email us with your details to abolition200@bristol.gov.uk

Contact us

If you would like to find out more please email legacy.commission@bristol.gov.uk

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