2007 was the bicentenary of the abolition of the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Gallery Oldham has joined with seven other museums and galleries in Greater Manchester to explore the history and lasting local legacy of slavery through the Revealing Histories project.

Slavery - what's it got to do with us?

Saturday 29 March, 12noon - 4pm, Gallery Oldham

This special event is the culmination of the Revealing Histories project at Gallery Oldham and Touchstones Rochdale.

Discovery

Talking About Slavery Trail:
On show all day. Tour at 12noon.
This display has been on show at Gallery Oldham since 2007 and will be extended to include visitor feedback and items from Touchstone Rochdale's collections. These include Epstein's bust of African-American singer Paul Robeson. Download a copy of the trail leaflet

For all the family:
12noon - 4pm
Creative craft activities to engage families with the theme of slavery, 12noon - 4pm.
Frederick, Rebel Slave - storytelling session by Peter Kalu, 1pm.

200 Years: Slavery Now:
On show all day
Contemporary ceramics by artists including Stephen Dixon and Paul Scott which reflect on the bicentenary and explore modern forms of slavery. On show 1- 29 March.

Slavery Displays at Oldham Local Studies and Archives:
10am - 4pm
Displays at Oldham Local Studies and Archives (in front of Gallery Oldham) focus on the effects of the Cotton Famine in Oldham; the lives of former slaves Juba Thomas Royton and James Johnson, who both settled in Royton; and abolitionism in Oldham.

Dance

Dance by Diamante and Frantic:
1:15pm and 3:30pm
Gripping dance performances by Diamante and Frantic, groups working with Spiral Dance Young Dance Company. The performances explore the history and techniques of African dance and the themes of resistance, compliance and freedom.

Debate

Slavery - what's it got to do with us?
Debate: 2pm
Did you know that slavery was key to the growth of the cotton industry? That local people campaigned for its abolition? The Asian labourers replaced slaves after abolition? Find out more about the history of the slave trade from our speakers and take part in a debate about its links to our local history.

There will also be more informal opportunities to feedback your views and ideas throughout the afternoon.

Also taking place - Co-op Fairtrade Stall, lunch and refreshments, live music.

All activities are free and there is no need to book.

Free transport will be available from Touchstones Rochdale to the event. Call 01706 924492 for more information.

For further information about the Revealing Histories project and events at other venues in the region please visit www.revealinghistories.org.uk