CINCINNATI, OH (May 24, 2018) – The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center will host a screening JOSIAH on Wednesday, May 30 at 6:00 p.m. The documentary film and discussion is presented by the Urban League of Southwestern Ohio Guild and Young Professionals, in partnership with the Harriet Beecher Stowe House. The program is free and open to the public. RSVPs are requested.
The film JOSIAH, by author and documentarian Jared A. Brock, tells the story of Josiah Henson who was born in Maryland and spent 41 years as a slave. Henson was a dynamic man with unyielding principles who overcame incredible odds to escape slavery to Canada, making the 600 mile-long journey with his wife and four children. His story inspired the main character in Harriet Beecher Stowe’s 1852 novel, Uncle Tom’s Cabin, the book that brought the brutality of slavery to light and fanned the flames of the Civil War. Yet despite his notable achievements and contribution to abolition, Henson’s story has been largely lost to history. Including interviews with leading experts and Henson descendants, the film traces Josiah Henson’s journey from slavery in Maryland and Kentucky to freedom in Canada.
“We encourage Cincinnati to see this dynamic and powerful film that tells the story of one man’s courage and perseverance in acquiring freedom for himself, his family and others,” says Christopher Miller, Director of Education at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. “By partnering on this film screening, we continue to challenge the community to learn more about the many stories that are often untold in the fight for freedom”.
Following the screening a discussion will take place with museum staff, members of the Urban League of Southwestern Ohio Guild and Young Professionals and Jared A. Brock. Brock will also discuss his book The Road To Dawn: Josiah Henson and the Story that Sparked the Civil War. The Road To Dawn chronicles Henson’s 41 years in bondage, his eventual escape to freedom and his rise as a great preacher and orator who used his freedom to uplift his fellow man for the entirety of his life. Guests can purchase a copy of the book at the program.
The JOSIAH screening and discussion is Wednesday, May 30 at 6:00 p.m. at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. This program is free and open to the public. RSVPs are requested. For more information and to RSVP, visit freedomcenter.org.