Goree Island: President Obama To Visit ‘Door Of No Return’

On a trip to Goree Island, President Obama is scheduled to visit the “door of no return.” The door is one of many landmarks preserved on the island, which historically warehoused slaves destined for the United States.

Senegal’s Goree Island was one of several locations used to restrain slaves as they awaited passage to the US. The island served as one of the most popular slave warehouses for over 300 years.

As reported by BBC, Goree, literally translated, means “good harbor.” However the island’s main purpose was anything but good. The island’s close proximity to the Senegalese coast made it easily accessible on the trade route.

The deep waters surrounding the island served to discourage escape. The slaves’ ankles were outfitted with 10 pound balls, making it impossible to swim.

Slave trade on Goree Island was halted by the French in 1848. In 1978 the island was designated a World Heritage site.

Today, the island houses a peaceful community of 1,300. Tourists note the tranquility, but rarely spend the night as there are few accommodations. Most tourists travel to the island for the historical value.

As reported by Think Africa Press, President Obama’s visit to Goree Island will include a guided tour through the House of Slaves, the men’s cells, and the children’s cells. Curator Eloi Coly will lead the tour and discuss the historical significance of each landmark.

The last stop on the tour will be the “door of no return.” Slaves reportedly left the island through the door as they made their way to ships destined for the US.

Gorean residents are concerned that President Obama’s visit will mirror that of former President George W. Bush in 2003. As Bush toured the island, residents were barred from the streets and sidewalks. One of the residents explained her outrage, stating “Bush put us in cages … We became slaves on our own island.”

Another critic of Bush’s visit stated “it was like the era of slavery, where the master is surrounded by guards all the time.”

Goree Island residents hope that President Obama and his staff will make an effort to avoid isolating island residents during their stay. The residents are prepared to welcome him with their blessing.

[Images via Wikimedia Wikimedia Flickr]