The screening of MJR documentary ‘After the Flood: the church, slavery and reconciliation’ at the University of Manchester on April 19 was followed by a Q&A session with an appreciative but questioning audience. The panel consisted of:
- Professor Robert Beckford, Director of the Institute of Climate and Social Justice, University of Winchester.
- Dr Elizabeth Henry, Racial Justice Advisor/Consultant and Activist, former National Advisor for Minority-Ethnic Anglican Concerns.
- Phyllis Thompson, Former Director of Education for the New Testament Church of God, England and Wales.
- Fr Azariah France-Williams, Rector of Ascension Church, Hulme.
- Dr Natalie Zaceck, Senior Lecturer, English and American Studies. Research areas: social and cultural history, race, slavery and abolition, gender and sexuality, material culture, the history of urbanism and the built environment.
Organiser Prof Dawn Edge commented: “My overall sense was that the questions from the attendees reflected a general desire to see real change, reconciliation and reparations. Your responses were informative and provided practical solutions to a difficult discussion, reflecting that whilst Manchester University has acknowledged the need to move beyond discussion, the work must continue in earnest. I do hope that we can continue to work with you to ensure that together we can move this agenda forward.”
The event was fully booked meaning some were turned away. This meant a number of ‘no-shows’ was a disappointment.
‘After the Flood’ continues to have an impact and generate discussion and reflection as it is screened in various places around the country. As we approach and pass milestones such as the 30th anniversary of the murder of Stephen Lawrence and the 75th anniversary of Windrush, the issues it raises remain important. If you would like to host a screening where you are please send MHR an email. If you would like to hire or purchase the film click here.
