How do I discuss the history of slavery in a group?

Tips for discussing difficult topics

On the page How do you talk to students about major events? you can find tips for discussing major events. Many of these tips can also be used when discussing the history of slavery or the colonial past:

• Pay attention to the different reactions of different children and young people
• Pay extra attention to children and young people who feel personally connected to the subject
• Make room for different experiences and opinions
• Acknowledge the children’s feelings and reassure them
• Provide them with appropriate information
• Also make sure there is sufficient distraction

Talking about the history of slavery and the colonial past

Research tells us what is important in influencing children’s and young people’s knowledge and attitudes regarding the history of slavery and the colonial past:

Make the connection with racism in the present

Explain that racism is still very relevant today. Share experiences of racism, for example by inviting someone with lived experience to give a guest lesson or by showing a video in which someone with lived experience talks about it.

Also show other perspectives

Pay attention to the stories of the people who were part of the resistance and fought for freedom, as well as the contributions to art, science and sport that emerged during this period.

Encourage empathy

If you tell the story only from the perspective of the colonizers and slave traders, you run the risk that students will adopt that perspective. Therefore, also tell the story from the perspective of the victims, in order to encourage empathy among your students.

Bring the subject closer to home

Many white people tend to distance themselves from slavery and colonialism. For example, they say that it is in the past or that their own ancestors had nothing to do with it. But because its effects continue into the present, it affects all of us. Therefore, bring the events of the past closer to home, to the Dutch context or perhaps even to your own family.

Teaching materials

Do you work in education and are you looking for teaching materials about the history of slavery, the colonial past, or racism and discrimination? At Voordeklas.com you can find teaching packages from various providers.