Connecticut's attorney general has proposed selling the replica of a historic slave ship to a nonprofit in order to pay its $2.2 million debt.The Amistad, Connecticut’s flagship for nearly 15 years, has been docked in New London since April. A judge recently approved the cancellation of a trip to New Haven this fall and authorized the ship's receiver to spend up to $4,000 for repairs.
Attorney General George Jepsen proposed selling the state-subsidized ship for $315,000 to Discovering Amistad Inc. in the hopes that it will preserve its educational mission.
The replica of a 19th century slave ship seized by African captives is a symbol of America's early anti-slavery movement.
New London Mayor Daryl Finizio says he hopes the new owners will keep the vessel in the city.
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