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Writer's pictureKanika Jones

My visit to Ghana (Cape Coast) 'The door of no return'


I stood in the small narrow passageway, my heart pounding as I stared at that door. It was the "Door of no Return" - a portal to a past that seemed so far away yet still so close. We had trampled over broken blocks of concrete, and the heat was oppressive. We could feel the weight of history on our shoulders as we stood before this door, and we knew that what lay beyond it would change us forever. No windows and the only light came from beneath the tall wooden door. There was no room to breathe, we all stumbled over each other. Shoulder to shoulder. Hand to hand. I was there voluntarily, I was there knowing that I would later return to the comfort of my home, the love of my family but there were many before me who didn't have such privileges. The shock, the terror, the torture screamed through the cracks of the walls. The history, the stories, the tears and sweat of my ancestors filled the corridor. Every step I took grew heavier. The door would open soon. What we knew as our language, our lineage, our religion would be swept away on the shore behind the door.


The Door of No Return is a powerful symbol of African American history and connection to Ghana. It marks the point where millions of Africans were taken away from their homes and families to be sold into slavery. This door has become a popular tourist destination, offering visitors an opportunity to reflect on the experience and gain a deeper understanding of the African American experience.

The Door of No Return is an important part of African American history, representing both tragedy and resilience. It serves as a reminder of the struggles faced by enslaved people in past centuries, while also highlighting their strength in overcoming these obstacles. By visiting this site, tourists can gain insight into the experiences that shaped African American culture and identity, as well as gain appreciation for its ongoing legacy today.

Today, many Africans Americans are rediscovering their connection with Ghana by visiting The Door of No Return. Through this experience, they can reconnect with their ancestors and gain an appreciation for the sacrifices made by them for future generations. It offers an opportunity to learn more about African-American history while also exploring the vibrant culture that exists in Ghana today.




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