PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Sept. 15, 2008) -- Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis and members of General Assembly’s Minority Caucus will gather at the State Archives in downtown Providence today at 4 p.m. to cut the ribbon on an exciting new exhibit that explores the history of slavery and African-American life in Rhode Island.
“Bondage, Abolition and Beyond” features a wide array of original documents including petitions and slavery-related legislation, military records, the creation of African-American civic organizations and censuses that show the impressive growth of Rhode Island's community of color.
“This exhibit portrays the emergence of African-Americans in the day-to-day life of this state. It highlights the progress we have made in extending equal rights to all our citizens,” said Mollis. “I hope exposure to history like this will inspire Rhode Islanders and remind them of the unique treasures the State Archives has to offer.”
The exhibit also highlights the first Act of the General Assembly confronting slavery in 1652, records dealing with the importation of slaves into the colony, their military participation during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, emancipation, and issues surrounding racial equality in education and marriage rights, as well as the emergence of various African-American institutions and benevolent organizations.
The exhibit is free and open to the public weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the State Archives, 337 Westminster St., Providence. Free parking is available at the In-Town Parking lot adjacent to the State Archives.
#####