On Monday, December 2, 2024, the English Language Department at Cihan University- Sulaimaniya organized a workshop titled “The Fight for Freedom: Commemorating the Abolition of Slave Trades,” aimed at exploring the historical significance of the abolition of slavery in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
The workshop featured a distinguished lineup of keynote speakers, who each delivered insightful presentations on various aspects of slavery and its abolition across different regions and time periods.
One of the speakers, Mr. Rezheen Nawzad Latif from Sulaimania University, gave an engaging talk on the acclaimed film 12 Years a Slave, using it as a lens to discuss the brutal realities of slavery in the United States.
Ms. Tafan Kamal Karim, presented on William Wilberforce and his pivotal role in the abolition of slavery in England. She discussed Wilberforce’s tireless efforts and the social and political challenges he faced, shedding light on the moral and legislative movements that ultimately led to the end of the transatlantic slave trade in the British Empire.
While Ms. Shaimaa Mohammed Ahmed, also from Cihan University of Sulaimaniyah, offered a fascinating exploration of the historical evolution of the term “slave” and how its meaning has changed over time. Her talk traced the development of the term across different cultures and civilizations, offering attendees a deeper understanding of the historical context behind the institution of slavery.
The workshop was a significant success, drawing attention to the crucial history of slavery and the ongoing global fight for freedom and equality.