Our Current Course: in Mystic, Conn.
This month's Amistad Leaders Spotlight is Xavier Cruz
Xavier has participated in Discovering Amistad's Freedom Forum, a spokesperson on Amistad dignitary tour, a youth representative at DA's DEI symposium, featured in DA's promotional video and performs deckhand duties aboard the ship. He has recently started college and feels that his experience at DA has contributed to his higher education decisions and passion. Xavier is an Amistad Leader in Action – and we congratulate him.
“Hi! I'm Xavier. I've made an effort to contribute to Discovering Amistad whenever I can, ever since I was 16. The Amistad has given me endless opportunities, from contributing to a cause in diversity to understanding history, to simply spending time with my grandfather. I've constantly desired to pay it forward and give opportunities to those around me and contribute further with Discovering Amistad.”
Discovering Amistad: Looking Ahead
As we continue our dedicated multi-year effort to secure the funding needed for the Amistad’s new masts, the ship will remain docked for this warm weather season. However, our journey is far from paused. This year, our team is honored to take the spirit and story of the Amistad on the road as we participate in many 250th events, as well as hosting several of our own.
As communities nationwide reflect on 250 years of American history, we’re excited to share the lessons, legacy, and inspiration of the Amistad with new audiences. Our educators, storytellers, and crew will be bringing powerful programming, hands‑on learning, and meaningful dialogue to celebrations throughout the year.
Thank you for standing with us as we continue this important work. We look forward to connecting with you at USA 250th events and celebrating this historic milestone together.
To celebrate America’s 250th, Discovering Amistad will elevate a powerful and inspiring AMERICAN Story – the 1839 Amistad Uprising. Join us foran interactive presentation linking the historical Amistad rebellion with our contemporary shared pursuit of FREEDOM. Through storytelling and dialogue, we will honor the determination of the 53 Mende and their profound impact on human rights.
Come ready to explore how elevating forgotten history and reclaiming untold narratives can inspire freedom, equity, and hope today.
Tuesday, April 7 | Bristol Public Library– 5:30 p.m. 5 High Street, Bristol
Wednesday, May 13 | First Congregational Church– 6:30 p.m. 62 Colony Street, Meriden
Tuesday, May 19 | Rocky Hill Public Library– 6:00 p.m. 33 Church Street, Rocky Hill
Wednesday, June 24 | Plainville Public Library– 6:00 p.m. 56 East Main Street, Plainville
Tuesday, July 28 | Public Library of New London– 5:00 p.m. 63 Huntington Street, New London
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Through the lens of the fight for freedom of the Amistad Uprising of 1839, we educate and collaborate to dismantle systemic racism and to achieve continue the fight for justice & equality today.
From our Board of Directors to the Amistad crew to our communities, funders and partners, we are in this together.
Discover how we educate and collaborate aboard our schooner, in classrooms, online and at historic institutions to facilitate learning, dialogue, action and ultimately, change.
Upcoming Events – Discover where we are and where we’re going. We hope you will join us.
Our Impact
