Caribbean nations demand apology, $33T in slavery reparations: ‘Enormous injustice’
A Coalition of Caribbean Nations Demands Apology and $33 Trillion in Slavery Reparations
A powerful coalition of Caribbean nations is taking a bold stand against the historical injustices of the slave trade. They are seeking a formal apology and a staggering $33 trillion from European governments for their role in this dark chapter of history.
The demand, which amounts to about a third of the estimated value of the global economy in 2022, is being made by a 15-nation group called Caricom. This group represents countries such as Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.
A Historic Injustice
Verene Shepherd, vice chairwoman of Caricom, emphasized the magnitude of the crime and the responsibility that European governments bear for what happened. She stated, “We need a figure to begin with, a negotiating figure.”
According to an American consulting firm hired by Caricom, Britain owes $19.6 trillion, France owes $6.5 trillion, and Spain owes $6.3 trillion. These figures were calculated based on the total impact of slavery on the affected nations, as reported by The Times of London.
Advocates for reparations point out that Britain has previously compensated former slave owners with 20 million pounds in the 1830s. This precedent raises the question of why the descendants of slaves have not been compensated for the loss of their freedom.
A Controversial Claim
Peter Espeut, dean of studies at a seminary college in Kingston, Jamaica, argues that reparations should be owed to the descendants of former slaves, not to the government. He believes that the Jamaican government’s claim for $9.5 trillion is an attempt to take money from poor black individuals. Espeut stated, “The government is trying to steal poor black people’s money by making this claim.”
Caricom has received support from some European governments willing to acknowledge their historical guilt. A Swiss group has provided information about the use of Swiss navigational instruments in the slave trade, while a Swedish group has shared how Swedish iron was used to make shackles for slaves.
Caricom’s website outlines a comprehensive 10-point plan for reparations, including a formal apology, opportunities for those who wish to return to Africa, government programs, cancellation of government debts, and technology transfer to boost the islands’ economies.
A Call to the New King
Arley Gill, chair of Grenada’s reparations commission, expressed hope that King Charles of Great Britain will address the issue of reparations. Gill stated, “We are hoping that King Charles will revisit the issue of reparations and make a more profound statement beginning with an apology, and that he would make resources from the royal family available for reparative justice.”
The fight for reparations is not just about financial compensation; it is about acknowledging the deep-rooted racial victimization that continues to affect the descendants of slavery and genocide. Caricom’s reparations committee is committed to the process of national and international reconciliation, recognizing that the persistent harm and suffering experienced by these victims are the primary causes of development failure in the Caribbean.
The post Caribbean Nations Seek Formal Apology, $33 Trillion in Slavery Reparations: ‘The Crime is Huge’ appeared first on The Western Journal.
How can visiting ancestral homelands help individuals affected by the slave trade in their healing and identity affirmation?
Were affected by the slave trade to visit their ancestral homelands, cultural preservation programs, and sustainable development initiatives. The coalition also emphasizes the need for education to raise awareness about the lasting impact of slavery and colonialism.
The demand for slavery reparations has sparked controversy and debate. Critics argue that it is unfair to hold present-day governments accountable for the actions of their ancestors. Others question the practicality of such a large sum of money, suggesting that it would be better invested in social and economic development within the affected countries.
However, supporters argue that reparations are necessary to address the enduring economic and social inequalities that stem from centuries of slavery and colonialism. They contend that the legacy of these crimes is still felt today, with many Caribbean nations struggling with high poverty rates, limited access to education and healthcare, and ongoing racial discrimination.
The issue of reparations for historical injustices is not unique to the Caribbean. Similar debates have taken place in other regions affected by slavery, such as Africa and the Americas. It raises important questions about how societies reckon with the darker aspects of their past and work towards a more just and equitable future.
While the demand for $33 trillion may seem ambitious, it serves to highlight the magnitude of the harm inflicted upon millions of enslaved Africans and their descendants. It is an opportunity for European governments to acknowledge their role in this dark chapter of history and take responsibility for its consequences.
It is unclear what the outcome of Caricom’s demand for reparations will be. Negotiations will undoubtedly be complex and protracted, with various parties needing to find common ground. However, the fact that this issue is being discussed and debated on an international scale is a significant step towards justice and reconciliation.
In conclusion, the demand for an apology and $33 trillion in slavery reparations by the coalition of Caribbean nations is a powerful call for justice and acknowledgment of historical crimes. While the controversy and debate surrounding this issue are understandable, it is crucial to recognize the ongoing legacy of slavery and colonialism and the need for reparations to address the deep-rooted inequalities they have caused. Only by confronting the past and working towards a more equitable future can we truly move forward as a global society.
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