Why is the ability to read and write a statement about freedom?

The ability to read and write can be interpreted as freedom of expression. Having the freedom to write down what you want and be able to share others ideas through reading was definitely something the slaves did not have. If the slaves had been taught to read or write they would have been able to learn that the condition they were in were not okay. Being able to read and write shows that you were taught by someone. Being taught by someone meant the slave was being treated as a human which did not happen. If slaves had been given freedom of expression they would have not obeyed. Having the freedom of reading and writing would have given the slaves a reason to fight back.