News

On Monday, 6^th May 2024, the Cayman Islands National Museum (CINM) debuted its newest exhibition, “Slavery Be Dead, We Be Free,” commemorating the return of Emancipation Day in the Cayman Islands. The exhibit offers visitors a poignant exploration of this significant chapter in Cayman’s history.

“Slavery Be Dead, We Be Free” vividly depicts the struggles of those who endured slavery and fought for freedom. From stirring narratives to compelling visuals, the exhibition serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of Cayman’s enslaved people.

A key highlight of the exhibition is a book titled ‘Accounts of Slave Compensation Claims’, which shows names of slaves, their owners and how much they were compensated. This book was among the collection which the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Heritage purchased from Simon Boxall and generously shared with the CINM. The exhibit also features pictures obtained from the Cayman Islands National Archive and video content from the History Channel’s YouTube account.

The success of ‘Slavery Be Dead, We Be Free’ is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the museum team, led by Interim Director. Their tireless efforts in curating and organizing this exhibition have ensured an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

Craig Merren, Chairman of the Board of the CINM shared “We extend our sincere appreciation and gratitude to the CINM team, Dr. Roy Murray, the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Heritage, and the Cayman Islands National Archive for their invaluable contributions to this exhibition. Their dedication to preserving our cultural heritage ensures that the stories of the past continue to inspire and educate future generations."

Slavery Be Dead, We Be Free will be on display at the Cayman Islands National Museum offering visitors an opportunity to reflect on the past, celebrate the present and envision a future rooted in freedom and equality.