Calls For Slavery Reparations Intensity In Saint Lucia

Calls for slavery reparations have intensified in Saint Lucia as leaders of 56 Commonwealth nations ended a week-long summit in Samoa on Saturday. The leaders urged Britain to have discussions on reparations for its role in the slave trade. The meeting marked a significant step toward acknowledging historical injustices, with the leaders stating that “the time has come for a meaningful, truthful and respectful conversation” on equity. While the meeting did not specify what form reparations might take, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer clarified that discussions at the summit were not “about money.” He reiterated, “None of the discussions have been about money. Our position is very, very clear in relation to that.” Despite this, calls for reparations have been gaining momentum, particularly from the Caribbean Community and the African Union, which have long advocated for former colonial powers to address the ongoing impacts of slavery. Aaron Alexander, president of the Iyanola Council for the Advancement of Rastafari and Pan African People criticised Britain’s refusal to even acknowledge the transatlantic slave trade as a crime against humanity. Alexander argued that this refusal perpetuates the same mindset that justified slavery: “It’s about thinking that they are superior… and can do as...