Holding Emotions
A free display offering a moment to reflect on, process and release emotions
Creating space for anger, empathy, curiosity, creativity and everything in between in the London, Sugar & Slavery gallery
The London, Sugar & Slavery gallery was created in 2007 and remains one of the only permanent displays in the UK dedicated to the role of Britain in the transatlantic slave trade. For some this may spark a sense of acknowledgement and for others curiosity. However, a gallery like this can also trigger discomfort, anger and disappointment. But where do these feelings go?
Holding Emotions is a collaborative display created with the museum, young people from Taking Shape Association and Mind’s Race Equity Team. It allows visitors to connect and confront the complexity of emotions that they may feel after engaging with the gallery.
Inspired by the objects in our collections, this space offers a moment to reflect on, process and release these emotions with mindfulness tools.
Objects on display
Self-care guide
Download the Holding Emotions self-care guide (opens in a new tab, 229kb) designed to support your reflections after your visit.
To explore more tools and activities to support you in processing your emotions, visit Mind.
London, Sugar & Slavery gallery
Discover how the trade in enslaved Africans and sugar shaped London in this free gallery
Find out more
London's Black History
Explore Black Londoners' stories in our collection through articles, videos and photography
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Engagement Charter
Find out how we're working with, listening to and learning from different communities to make the museum better for everyone
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