Anti-Slavery Quilting

Welcome to Anti-Slavery Quilting!

Join us for a virtual event where we will explore the history of quilting as a form of resistance against slavery. Learn about the significance of quilts in the abolitionist movement and how they were used to communicate messages of freedom. Our expert speakers will guide you through this important chapter of history. From 19th-century abolitionist sewing circles and the legends around the coded quilts of the Underground Railroad all the way to Modern and more contemporary extensions of this practice, such as Faith Ringgold’s quilting and the Sophie Hayes Foundation’s own Freedom Quilt project. Let us connect the concepts of historical slavery and modern slavery, using the former to contextualize the latter whilst illustrating the intergenerational trauma of slavery as well. Expect discussion on the use of sewing and quilting as a way in which traditionally feminine spaces were co-opted for the purpose of enabling women to enjoy political agency in the anti-slavery space, and how this practice has evolved into modern day.

Event Details:

Date: 26th June

Time: 2 pm

Location: Online

Guest Speakers

Sarah, Sewing & Quilting expert - @sarahashfordstudio

Mary Fons, Writer, editor, and presenter specializing in the history of American quilts. Host of “Quilt Nerd"

Dr. Joanna Pawlik, Senior lecturer and Head of the Art History Department at the University of Sussex

A former Sophie Hayes Foundation participant who worked on our iconic Freedom Quilt.

Don't miss this opportunity to delve into the world of anti-slavery quilting and discover the powerful stories behind these intricate works of art. By securing your tickets, your donation will be going towards lifechanging support for survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking.

Please note, the meeting will be recorded to share with those who bought tickets. Therefore, if you cannot attend at the time of the event going live please do still secure your tickets for the chance to watch anytime.

Sophie Hayes Foundation was founded in 2011 by Sophie Hayes, a British woman who was trafficked to Italy for the purposes of sexual exploitation and modern slavery. It is unique in being founded by a survivor and works with women survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking to rebuild and develop the skills, confidence, and independence to help them achieve sustainable freedom.