International Slavery Museum

Who we are

The International Slavery Museum is the only museum of its kind to look at aspects of historical and contemporary slavery as well as being an international hub for resources on human rights issues. The International Slavery Museum highlights the international importance of slavery, both in a historic and contemporary context. The museum, its education programme and collections provide opportunities for children and young people to develop a greater awareness and understanding of the legacy of slavery today, looking at themes such as racism, discrimination and inequality. The museum is located in Liverpool's Albert Dock within the Maritime Museum, at the centre of a World Heritage site and only yards away from the dry docks where 18th century slave trading ships were repaired and fitted out. The museum tells the story of Transatlantic slavery through objects and interactive displays in three key galleries: Life in West Africa, Enslavement and the Middle passage and Legacies. Handling sessions at Key Stage Two and Three are offered covering all three of these themes. The museum also enables pupils to explore African culture through art with sessions which explore Uli and Adinkra symbols and African Batik; and to experience authentic music through Baba’s Musical Voyage and A Taste of African Music. The museum can offer two very accessible theatre in education performances; ‘Destination Freedom’ and ‘Keep your Eyes on the Prize’. The International Slavery Museum offers an engaging and challenging learning experience for children of all ages and offers an informative and safe environment to discuss a wide range of difficult issues from our past and current issues that affect our future.