Caribbean News
Mary Prince, an unlikely hero and legendary survivor of slavery
#Providenciales, August 5, 2019 – Turks and Caicos – It was not a positive story, but it was a courageous one told by Bermudian-born, Mary Prince.
Prince spent a tortured time as a sold slave in the Turks and Caicos Islands, just as she did in Bermuda and Antigua. Physically, sexually and psychologically abused, the enduring woman lived when others had died and was taught to read; a rare opportunity.
This outlawed advantage proved to be her legacy and an invaluable contribution to the abolitionist movement of the day. The account of Mary Prince is controversial, treasured, inspiring and legendary.
Her story is ‘best-selling’ and is remarkably noted as the first-of-its-kind from a female African slave.
Prince, though branded by some as a prostitute and a liar, gave stirring testimony in an English court to support the efforts of the Anti-Slavery Society.
The Turks and Caicos National Museum at its website writes: “The Abolitionist movement grew and formed a very powerful lobby. In 1823 a new campaign was launched by the humanitarians and saw the publication of anti-slavery literature, such as the accounts of Mary Prince, published in 1831. This movement put pressure on the governments of colonial areas, much to the disgust of these Assemblies who disliked interference in their affairs. However, in the end they had to succumb to the political will from Westminster.”
BermudianBiographies.bm reflects, “As one of an estimated 6,000 slave narratives published, it helped lay the foundation for the black literary tradition in the West. Even though scholars concede Prince’s tale was skewed to serve the interests of the abolitionist movement, they don’t doubt its accuracy. It’s on reading lists of women’s and black studies courses in universities in US and the UK.”
Mary Prince, is recorded as having predeceased the Abolition of Slavery Act 1834. Prince reportedly died in 1833. She is however immortalized in many ways, including in London where a plaque was placed in the London Borough of Camden in her honour. The plaque, depicted on OpenPlaques.org reveals the inscription:
‘Mary Prince 1788-1833 abolitionist and author lived in a house near this site 1829.’
Mary Prince is an indisputable example of how one can live a life large and legendary, even in death.
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KINGSTON, May 1 (JIS):
Ground has been broken at the tuition-free Christel House at Twickenham Park, St. Catherine, for the construction of a high school.
Minister of Education and Youth, Hon. Faval Williams, who delivered the keynote address at the site, today (May 1), said Christel House’s dedication to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering vulnerable children is “nothing short of inspiring”.
“Your decision to invest in Jamaica speaks volumes about your belief in our nation’s potential, and your dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our youth is appreciated,” Minister Williams said.
She added that the partnership between the Government and the organisation, forged through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 2019, is a “prime example” of what can be achieved when public and private entities come together with a shared vision and purpose.
Further, the Minister said a foundation is being laid for a brighter future, one where every child has the opportunity to thrive and fulfil their potential, regardless of their circumstances.
She said that Christel House Jamaica, which now operates a kindergarten school at the location, will in time be more than just a school.
“It will be a symbol of optimism, a sanctuary of learning, and a catalyst for positive change in our community,” the Minister said.
“By providing comprehensive support, including education, nutrition, healthcare, and mentorship, Christel House will empower students to break free from the chains of poverty and chart a course towards a better tomorrow,” she added.
Mrs. Willliams said the shared goal between the Administration and Christel House extends beyond the construction of a building, as it is about nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will shape the destiny of the nation.
“Together, we are sowing the seeds of prosperity, equity, and social justice, ensuring that no child is left behind,” she said.
The school provides breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack, as well as transportation for children living far distances from the school. It also provides uniforms and textbooks, and counselling services for its students who have to contend with psychological and other emotional issues.
Founder of Christel House International, Christel Dehaan, emigrated from Germany to the United States (US) in 1962, and was an accomplished businesswoman.
In 1996, she sold her global enterprise, Resort Condominiums International (RCI), which had offices in 38 countries, and devoted her resources to philanthropic work from her headquarters in North Meridian Street, Indianapolis.
With support from dedicated donors, schools are run in India, Jamaica, Mexico, South Africa, and the US.
CONTACT: GARFIELD L. ANGUS
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