UN Chief Calls for Justice on Slavery Remembrance Day
In a poignant address at the United Nations General Assembly, Secretary-General António Guterres marked the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. He emphasized the enduring impact of this dark chapter in history, highlighting the suffering endured by millions and the need for reparatory justice. Guterres urged nations and communities to confront the legacies of slavery and work towards a more equitable future.
The Legacy of Injustice
During his remarks, Guterres described the transatlantic slave trade as an “indelible stain on the conscience of humanity.” For over four centuries, countless Africans were forcibly taken from their homes, subjected to brutal conditions, and stripped of their dignity. The Secretary-General underscored the profound suffering experienced by these individuals, whose lives were marred by fear, pain, and exploitation for profit.
He reflected on the devastating impact of slavery on families and communities, noting the historical injustices faced by women, children, and men who were forced into labor under horrific circumstances. Guterres also acknowledged the resilience of those who resisted, citing significant events such as the Haitian Revolution and the Underground Railroad as examples of courage and defiance against oppression.
Confronting Historical Wrongs
Guterres expressed regret that many nations, including his own, participated in the immoral slave trade, driven by greed and the false ideology of white supremacy. He pointed out that while slavery was officially abolished, it was the enslavers who received reparations, amounting to billions in today’s currency, rather than the victims themselves. In a particularly cruel twist, some enslaved individuals were even forced to compensate their oppressors to secure their own independence, as seen in Haiti.
Today, Guterres emphasized, is not just a day of remembrance but a call to action. He urged the global community to acknowledge the lasting legacies of slavery and colonialism, which continue to manifest as systemic racism and discrimination. He highlighted the need for reparatory justice frameworks that are rooted in international human rights law and developed in collaboration with affected communities.
Steps Toward Acknowledgment and Action
In recent discussions at the African Union Summit and the Caribbean Community Heads of Government Meeting, leaders have increasingly advocated for reparatory justice. Guterres noted that some institutions and states are beginning to confront their pasts, with museums and public spaces commemorating the contributions and resistance of people of African descent. However, he stressed that these efforts are just the beginning.
To truly address the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade, Guterres called for a collective commitment to acknowledge this painful history. He urged nations to comply with international obligations, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination. Business leaders and civil society must also play their part in promoting equality and combating racism.
A Vision for the Future
At the heart of Guterres’ message is the belief that human dignity is a fundamental right for all. He called on everyone to join the mission of building inclusive societies free from racism and discrimination. The Secretary-General reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to defending human rights and dignity, urging individuals and communities to stand against racial injustice wherever it occurs.
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