Happy 4th of July

7:30PM 4 July

Today we went to the post and trade castles that were used for slave trade in Cape Coast. There are two, Elmina Castle (aka Saint George's Castle) and Cape Coast Castle. The tour guides for both were very good and really knew the history. The castles were used as holding spots for Africans that were getting sent to the Americas in the slave trade. It is unimaginable to think of the horrific actions that took place here. And it was so eerie to be walking around on the same floor you knew someone died and was tortured on. I've never been to any of the concentration camps in Europe, but I imagine that the emotions felt would be similar.

For 10 Pesos (cents in the Ghana Cedi currency) I got what's called a dough ball from someone selling on the street. It is so good. It's basically like fried dough, but it is not very sweet and it isn't as greasy. I don't really like funnel cakes or fried dough in the US like that, but these dough balls had a different taste and were great.

Whenever our travelling van is not moving somewhere, we become swarmed by children and young adults who are selling food, bracelets, and other nick nacks. Those that aren't selling anything are motioning for money or food. It is so sad and
painful to see and though it would be quite easy for me to hand out 1 Cedi to them, you just can't do that. Giving out a small bit of money is not going to change their economic position and it only creates a scene. It's difficult to turn your head to such poverty and it makes me want to work harder for a cause that will promote policy changes that will stimulate economic growth, social services, and aid for the country.


-- Posted From My iPhone