At a time when public officials are putting limits on the recounting of Black history, Broward County’s African American Research Library & Cultural Center (AARLCC) is presenting “To Be Sold: Enslaved Labor and Slave Trading in the Antebellum South,” an exhibit that explores domestic slave trade in the American South through original archival documents and artwork by John W. Jones.
Historian and AARLCC Library Manager Dr. Tameka Bradley Hobbs opened the exhibition by moderating a conversation between South Carolina State Sen. Mia S. McLeod and author Margaret Seidler, descendants connected by slavery.
During the conversation, entitled “Cultural Conversation: A Bridge to Truth and Connection,” McLeod and Seidler revealed personal stories of reconciliation and healing.
“A Likely Girl” by John W. Jones.
(Courtesy of AARLCC)
The exhibition draws inspiration from Seidler’s award-winning book “Payne-ful Business: Charleston’s Journey to Truth.”
In the book, Seidler uses research and personal experience to explore the realities of Charleston, South Carolina’s racial history while highlighting the historians, journalists, and community members who work to reconcile these truths.
Central to the exhibition are authentic 19th-century slave advertisements, researched by Seidler, a Charleston native who confronts her family’s legacy of three generations of enslavers.
“Book Binder” by John W. Jones.
(Courtesy of AARLCC)
In a press release, Hobbs described what visitors to the exhibit can expect.
“This exhibition challenges us to confront the difficult truths of our shared history — not to retraumatize, but to honor the strength and humanity of those who were enslaved,” Hobbs said.
“Through honest dialogue, we create space for understanding, healing, and reflection,” she added. “It is through this connection between past and present that we move toward a more informed, compassionate, and united future.”
The exhibit is presented in partnership with Partners in Racial Justice and the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor.
One of five specialty libraries in the country, the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center highlights the contributions of persons of African and Caribbean descent.
“To Be Sold: Enslaved Labor and Slave Trading in the Antebellum South” will be on view through Dec. 27, 2025, at the African American Research Library & Cultural Center (AARLCC) Gallery, 2650 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311. Admission is free.