Communication and secrecy were key to the successful operation of the Underground Railroad. Safety was more important than quickness. Both fugitive slaves and members of the Underground Railroad learned to code and decode hidden messages, and to disguise signs to avoid capture. There were code names for towns on the routes and code numbers for towns. There were signs and songs. Did you know that a quilt hanging on a clothesline with a house and a smoking chimney among its designs indicated a safe house? How about the fact that the song, “Follow the Drinking Gourd” was more than a song to sing but that it actually served as directions to Canada? Using storytelling, activities and songs, Dr. Sanders depicts the ingenuity and resiliency of those who used the Underground Railroad to help over 100,000 slaves escape to freedom between 1810 and 1850. This presentation offers a rare look into this nation’s past and an opportunity to fully understand the scope of not only the danger, but the determination of those who facilitated and used the Underground Railroad as a means to reach freedom. It is a story of the unbreakable human spirit in its pursuit in equality for all.

Let’s meet Dr. Sanders!

Tamika Sanders started her company Savvy Pen to provide interactive programs that incorporate arts learning and multicultural training to bridge cultural and socioeconomic divides between educators and students. Her work brings diverse real-world perspectives to programming initiatives and creates strategic community partnerships that can generate revenue and provide access to resources and opportunities for marginalized groups. In 2009, Dr. Sanders collaborated with the Bi-National Arts Residency (BNAR), which connects cultural communities in the Sonoran Desert on issues of social justice and identity through art. Dr. Sanders hopes to continue using the arts to break barriers, unite people, and create social change.

This program is made possible by Arizona Humanities. Arizona Humanities is a statewide 501(c)3 non-profit organization and the Arizona affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Arizona Humanities supports public programs that promote the understanding of the human experience in Arizona and provides funds to cultural, educational, and non-profit organizations across the state.

Seating is very limited! You MUST register to confirm your spot!