How did the institution of slavery change over time and across geography? 

How can primary documents reveal the individuality and agency of both enslaved and free Black people in the 17th and 18th century?

A “poem for two voices” is a two-column format that allows writers to juxtapose two contrasting ideas, concepts, or perspectives. Alternating lines indicate opposing viewpoints and are read by an individual voice. Adjacent lines represent agreement or compromise and are therefore read in unison. Before beginning this activity, have students examine examples here Poems for Two Voices | Poetry In Voice and listen to examples read out loud on YouTube by searching for the same titles listed posted on Poetry in Voice. 

Have students pair up. Distribute copies of the primary sources listed below. As they read, students should highlight phrases that are important to identity, perspective, emotion, etc. After looking at sources that reflect both the perspectives of people who are free and enslaved, students should decide on a theme for their poem. For example, ‘hope,’ ‘perseverance,’ ‘labor,’ etc. 

In their own words and using words from the primary sources, students use the poetry for two voices format to create a two-column poem on their chosen theme. Note: Some student populations might benefit from a skeletal outline, starting lines, or template for each line/phrase. 

Students can illustrate their poems and mount them on construction paper, perform them in front of the class, or make an audio recording to share with the larger community.