WU Hosts World Premiere of Amazing Grace

On February 16, 2007, Wilberforce University will host an on-campus world premiere of Amazing Grace, an epic film that depicts the life of British abolitionist William Wilberforce. The premiere will take place at 7:00pm in the Alumni Multiplex.

As a member of the 18th century British Parliament, Wilberforce avidly opposed the inhumane treatment of Africans in the British slave trade. At a time when Africans were treated as cargo of capitalistic merchants, Wilberforce petitioned for their freedom and human rights. His ideals sparked the abolitionist movement in the United States and inspired men such as Frederick Douglass and William Lloyd Garrison. So powerful was the legacy of Wilberforce, that in 1856, when the African Methodist Episcopal church founded the first private institution of higher education for the sons and daughters of slaves, they made their institution his namesake.

The month of February is one of particular significance to Wilberforce University. During February, we reflect on the historical contributions of African Americans and the founding of our Noble Alma Mater. This February will also mark the 200th anniversary of the abolition of the British slave trade. We invite all students, staff, and faculty as well as alumni, local community and religious leaders as we honor the life and works of William Wilberforce. It is our sincere hope that this film will inspire individuals to continue Wilberforce’s work through the betterment of self, our University, and the community at large.

For more information, please contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at (937) 708-5709. We look forward to seeing you there!