Reminders of Slavery

Returned to Goree Island's La Maison des Esclaves [House of Slaves] 

to be sadly reminded of the horrors humans can inflict on other humans - Senegal

This cell, where "problem" slaves were punished, is too small to stand and just big enough for one; 

several people were punished in it at a time and often being put in the cell meant a certain death.

It's hard to believe this tiny, stunning island with its Mediterranean feel, 

held dozens of house specializing in selling humans to slave ships

The hand of Miriam in the Jewish world, the hand of Fatima in the Muslim world--

Providing protection from the evil eye to an island with a dark past

(Also called Hamsa; For more on Hamsa)

This is my attempt to balance out the heavy reminders of slavery with a photo

of the adorable goats playing right outside the House of Slaves

What is it about goats that is so adorable?  The baby goats remind me of Rudolph from the Claymation Christmas special when they run

l'île de Gorée: Maison des Esclaves

La Maison des Esclaves et la Porte du Voyage Sans Retour -- l'île de Gorée, Senegal

House of Slaves and the Door of No Return -- Goree Island, Senegal

Goree Island with Dakar in the background -- Senegal

view from the guest apartment in House of Slaves -- l'île de Gorée, Senegal

Goree Island from the House of Slaves -- l'île de Gorée, Senegal

La Porte du Voyage Sans Retour -- l'île de Gorée, Senegal
(The Door of No Return)

the approach to Goree Island -- l'île de Gorée, Senegal

Click for information on the House of Slaves and the Door of No Return

And here for more information on Goree Island