Working together on The Spirit of the Act

Musician Ben Okafor (left) has agreed to be ‘Artist in Residence’ for an exciting joint project by the Diocesan Committee for Racial Justice and Board for Social Responsibility.

Called ‘The Spirit of the Act’ the project aims to ensure discussions and actions on contemporary slavery are not forgotten once the March 2007 commemorations of the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act are over, and reminds us that we must act on those things that enslave us in the UK today, if we are not to be complicit.

A series of events around the diocese are planned in host venues such as schools and churches, and will involve people from the surrounding community in various art forms which will culminate in a concert showcasing their achievements.

Okafor and a colleague will facilitate the creative processes such as lyric writing, drama and musical performance.

Diocesan Racial Justice Adviser, Raj Patel says: ‘We will want to see a series of outcomes that will show that our own freedom from those things that enslave us is inextricably tied with our seeking the freedom of others. It promises to be an exciting project.’