with Educational Web Adventures
Electronic Field Trip
The judges said:
An immensely sobering, evocative and engaging story of the life of a free black woman during the days of slavery. A sensitive subject well thought out and
well presented using familiar techniques to engage and teach. Once again, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation have used every possible means of media
delivery, both old and new, to tell their stories. An impressive effort.
The producers said:
"No Master Over Me" explores the topic of "free blacks" in colonial America. Living in a world caught between wary whites and bound
African-Americans, they struggled to develop independent lives with strong family ties live as active members of their local communities. Experiencing how,
in spite of terrific odds, free blacks lived meaningful lives is one way that students can begin to develop historical empathy and a better understanding
of racism in twenty-first century America. Students can begin to appreciate the "idea of America," an idea for all people wishing to live in a state of
liberty. Our goal is to engage children in American history as they grow and develop into actively involved citizens understanding both the rights and
responsibilities of citizenship. These stories are an important part of that education.
Producer's Tip: American history is a narrative and for Colonial Williamsburg it is the ongoing story of becoming Americans. Children need to know these
stories, not just the well-known ones about Washington and his friends, but especially the ones about ordinary citizens who lived extra-ordinary lives.
At Colonial Williamsburg we try to be historically honest and tell these stories in a format that engages our target audience and yet is sensitive to the
maturity of those children whom we hope to inspire. Inspired children will become lifelong learners and appreciate the special experiment that is America.
When the door of opportunity opens to reach today's children, choose to step through it and craft a story that not only educates, but perhaps more
importantly, inspires.
