A new exhibition opening at Chester Cathedral on Saturday 10 October will draw attention to the global issue of modern slavery. Human trafficking and modern slavery affect an estimated 40 million people worldwide.
The exhibition, 'Sara Shamma: Modern Slavery' hopes to highlight the global issue of modern slavery. The exhibition opens on Saturday 10 October until Thursday 22 October – and is open as per current Cathedral opening times.
Based on interviews with women who have lived experience of modern slavery and experts in the field, London-based Syrian artist Sara Shamma visually considers the meaning of survival, endurance, and recovery from survivors’ perspectives.
The exhibition is the result of a research-based residency as part of the King’s Artists programme at King’s College London.
Chester Cathedral Vice Dean, Canon Jane Brooke says: “Many people are shocked to discover that modern slavery remains a major issue right now. Sara Shamma’s stunning exhibition brings to light the plight of people entangled in this horrific crime.
"Despite being in the midst of a pandemic, we still have a role to play in raising awareness of such topics, and I’m exceptionally grateful to the exhibition’s supporters in enabling us to bring Sara’s work from London to Chester. How can we fight modern slavery?”
Cheshire Constabulary, Chester Cathedral congregation, the Diocese of Chester, Cheshire West and Chester Council, and individual donors have supported the Cathedral in bringing 'Sara Shamma: Modern Slavery' to Chester.
There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28
Canon Jane Brooke introduces the Modern Slavey Exhibition by the artist Sara Shamma