TOW #20 - Is This Sugarcane Plantation 'America's Auschwitz'? (Sophia Unterman)

In her article published in Forward, an online magazine, Sophia Unterman questions whether the Whitney Plantation in New Orleans lives up to its description as the “Auschwitz of America.” As a freelance writer whose grandmother is an Auschwitz survivor, she is able to navigate this controversial topic with grace and clarity. Her purpose is to show that the Whitney Plantation is an eye-opening experience that manages to educate Americans about slavery in an honest yet powerful way. She accomplishes this by clarifying the plantation’s focus and employing a clear voice with an informal tone. Unterman clarifies the plantation’s focus so she is able to judge its success at accomplishing its purpose. She writes that it focuses on, “The slave quarters; a holding pen used at the slave markets in New Orleans; and the small buildings in which sugar was processed. There is no focus on the grandeur of the house and the family.” This is extremely important, as it shows that the plantation tour is not just another house tour romanticizing the Old South. Instead, it hopes to reveal the true nature behind the tragedy of slavery. Additionally, Unterman uses a clear voice and informal tone to appeal to primary audience, which is those who might be insensitive regarding the fragile subject of slavery and civil rights. For example, she is addressing those who raise the Confederate flag without realizing the cultural significance of this gesture. Unterman writes, regarding the tour guide, “She explained that when slaves escaped and were caught, they were killed and their heads were stuck on pikes, to scare other slaves from trying to do the same.” This description is very matter of fact, as it is intended to show the average reader that slavery is no laughing matter despite its old age. Ultimately, Unterman demonstrates that the Whitney Plantation does indeed educate Americans through its powerful story and conscious description of slavery. After reading her article, I hope to visit the former plantation one day.