Anyone who enjoys travelling abroad should have the utmost respect for Ebenezer Bassett, America's first Black diplomat. Raised in Connecticut as a free man, Bassett was an abolitionist, educator, and close friend of Frederick Douglass. His advocacy for freeing slaves became the foundation for his future work as a diplomat, being a strong advocate of human rights. When President Ulysses S. Grant was elected, he picked Bassett to be the Minister Resident to Haiti. It was not an easy posting, but Bassett's longtime work in human rights shaped how he handled a difficult case.
In the 1870s, Bassett protected General Pierre Boisrond Canal, who came to his home requesting refugee status. Giving General Canal sanctuary for five months, Bassett eventually negotiated safe passage for the general to Jamaica.
The story of protecting General Canal could be a feature-length film within itself. Bassett was a Black American hero and he exemplified humanity, intelligence, and honour. For this, he deserves a film.