Students Meet Turks & Caicos Deputy Governor
After sailing to the Turks & Caicos onboard the Spirit of Bermuda, the students and crew received a visit from Deputy Governor Anya Williams, and are enjoying their time in the island, taking the opportunity to visit locations including Cockburn Town, the lighthouse, salt museum and more.
The trip — entitled ‘In the Wake of Mary Prince’ – include lessons and perspectives from Bermudian historian Dr. Theodore Francis, who previously explained to Bernews that, “This is a historical exploration of enslavement and mobility and society, as well as trade and social relations. We’re using the story of Mary Prince, an enslaved Black Bermudian woman who was born in Bermuda, transported to Turks and Caicos, returned back to Bermuda, transported to Antigua, and then eventually travels to England.”
One student said, “Our journey to Turks and Caicos has been informative and enlightening. With the purpose of following in the wake of Mary Prince, we have learnt of the legacy that she has left behind, and its significance for both Turks and Bermuda. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to further understand the rich cultural and historical connections between the two islands.”
Another student said, “The entire voyage has felt like an adventure that I honestly never imagined me having. Our classes with Dr. Francis was exciting and educational and his perspective on Mary Prince and slavery was new to me and caused me to think in ways that I believe I wouldn’t have on my own. All in all, I have loved every aspect of the voyage from meeting a variety of people, to the sailing of the boat, and I hope to get another opportunity to sail on the Spirit of Bermuda.”
