Freedom Schooner Amistad Prepares Departure from Halifax to  Continue on Historic Transatlantic Voyage

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Sailing and Safety Training Ongoing as Spare Parts Supplement Inventory
Halifax, NS, CAN, July 12, 2007–  The Freedom Schooner Amistad is engaging in sailing and safety training as it awaits arrival of final spare parts to supplement its inventory before departing Halifax on its transatlantic voyage retracing the Atlantic Slave Trade Triangle.   Amistad expects to bid Nova Scotia a fond farewell on Saturday, July 14th.

“The people of Nova Scotia could not have been more hospitable”, observed Captain Eliza Garfield of the Freedom Schooner Amistad.  “They welcomed us into their community and assisted us mightily as we prepare for our transatlantic crossing.  We are most grateful for their support.”

Freedom schooner Amistad—the Vessel for Change—will depart Halifax for London, England as part of its Atlantic Freedom Tour retracing the Slavery Trade Triangle.  This voyage, timed to coincide with the 200 – year commemoration of  the Abolition Act in Britain and next year in the United States,  underscores the need for global recognition of the values of collaboration, social justice and freedom.

While in Halifax, the crew and students honed their  sailing and safety skills in preparation for the trip across the Atlantic.  “Preparedness and safety are top priorities for the ship and her crew”, stated AMISTAD America Chairman Bill Minter.  “We are pleased they were able to maximize their time in Halifax.”

Amistad is also waiting for her final spare parts before departing.  “Our new water maker was giving us concern, so we have built in a redundancy to our ship’s equipment stores”, explained Captain Garfield.  “We look forward to setting sail on Saturday.”

The Freedom Schooner Amistad, is a replica of the original ship that was commandeered by Africans who had been captured in 1839 in an attempt to secure their freedom.  After an unsuccessful attempt to return to their homes in West Africa, they were arrested off Montauk Point, and charged with piracy and murder.  Through the combined efforts of white and black Abolitionists working for their freedom, their plight was brought to the attention of former President John Quincy Adams who argued their case in the Supreme Court of the United States and won their release.

AMISTAD America, Inc. is not-for-profit US based charity that promotes improved relations between races and cultures through educational programs and Amistad schooner port visits.