‘You may shoot me with your words,

You may cut me with your eyes,

You may kill me with your hatefulness,

But still like air, I will rise’.

-Maya Angelou (Still I Rise Poem)

International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition is observed on August 23rd each year to honor the memory of the millions of men, women, and children who suffered and lost their lives during the transatlantic slave trade. The day is commemorated as a respectful reminder of centuries of inhumane life practices and the relentless efforts of martyrs to end this dark chapter in human history.

The transatlantic slave trade, which lasted from the 15th to the 19th century, involved the forced transportation of enslaved destitute Africans to the Americas and other parts of the world. During the difficult voyages known as the Middle Passage, slaves were subjected to unspeakable atrocities, cruel treatment, and inhumane conditions. Many did not survive the voyage, succumbing to disease, malnutrition, and the harsh treatment they endured.

The origins of the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition can be traced back to Haiti. On August 23, 1791, enslaved Africans in the French colony of Saint-Domingue (now Haiti) rose in revolt against their oppressors, marking the beginning of the Haitian Revolution. This revolution ultimately played a major role in the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade.

This worldwide holiday was established in 1998 by UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation) to recognize the historical importance of the slave trade and to foster a better awareness of its effects on the global community. The purpose of the day is to increase awareness of the value of liberty, human rights, and the struggle against racism and prejudice through education and commemoration activities.

A vital reminder that history must never be lost is provided by recalling the slave trade and its abolishment. 

It enables us to consider the anguish faced by millions of people during this difficult time as well as its long-lasting effects. By studying and understanding this painful chapter in history, it is vital to prevent such atrocities in the future and thereby shape the cultures and attitudes of today’s society. The day also honors individuals who have played a significant role in the movement of remembrance. 

Numerous activists, including William Wilberforce, Olaudah Equiano, Harriet Tubman, and Frederick Douglass, worked relentlessly to abolish both the slave trade and slavery in general. The continued fight for social justice and human rights is inspired by their bravery, tenacity, and activism.

Modern forms of slavery and human trafficking continue to exist even as the International Day for the Abolition of the Slave Trade is celebrated. It is affecting millions of people worldwide.

This day serves as a call to action to address these contemporary issues and reaffirm our commitment to eradicating slavery and exploitation.

Educational institutions, museums, and organizations around the world use this day as an opportunity to hold lectures, exhibitions, and cultural events to promote and foster an understanding of historical injustices.

Societies can jointly learn from the past and work to create a more just, and equitable environment for future generations by engaging in these activities.

The International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition is an important time to reflect on the atrocities of the transatlantic slave trade, pay respect to the millions of lives lost, and celebrate the tenacity of those who battled to abolish slavery. By celebrating this day, we reaffirm our dedication to the battle against injustice in all its manifestations and make sure that the legacy of those who were held in slavery and their struggles are never forgotten. It is a call to action to foster compassion, tolerance, and respect for all, as well as to band together to build a society where liberty and decency rule.

Written by: Rtr. Windya Madushani

Graphic design by: Rtr. Sathmi Dinanja