Press Statement: International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, March 25, 2024

The Transatlantic Slave Trade began in the year 1526 when Enslaved Africans were transported to the Americas and sold off to slave masters. For almost four hundred years this cruel human atrocity was perpetuated, eventually being outlawed in 1865. During this period millions of lives were lost due to the brutal nature of their transshipment and heinous plantation life of those entrapped there, subjected to the most grueling circumstances. Nevertheless, the slave trade continued in violation of laws prohibiting the continuation of this horrific crime against humanity. The United Nations General Assembly via Resolution 62/122 in 2007 declared 25 March as International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, to be observed annually. This global observance is an occasion used to educate and enlighten people about the severe injustices of slavery and the resultant prejudices and sufferings that are still visible in today’s society.

Horrific crimes were committed on the enslaved by colonial powers and today we remember and honour those that died in their fight for freedom. Their lives were filled with humiliation and terror as the oppressors accumulate wealth from blood, sweat and tears of the innocent.

The global theme for 2024 “Creating Global Freedom – Countering Racism with Justice in Societies and among Nations” is an appeal for just and fair societies, and the eradication of racial and discriminatory practices that have strangled our minds and actions for far too long. Continuation of such prejudices are dangerous, education and awareness campaigns are key to changing mindsets.

Throughout the years segregational issues arose, racism and marginalization are resultant factors, that continue to be important issues to be addressed in every society today. Hence, it is important to remember the factors that were responsible for racial division and discriminatory practices in society and that have impacted every aspect of life, such as politics, social division, economic disparities and health inequalities.

The Guyana Public Service Union GPSU) in observance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, rejects the residue of the historical crime and travesty that befell our ancestors. There is an urgent need to address racial hate and discriminatory practices in our social actions and professional environments. We must all make it a priority to be involved in the process of eradicating this scourge from our society, less we be consumed.
Together, as we remember the victims of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, let’s unite for human rights, dignity and opportunity for all.