Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Bruce Golding

The commemoration of the Bicentenary of the Abolition of the Transatlantic Trade in Africans to Jamaica, is a milestone event steeped in deep controversy. Many persons question the significance of remembering such a cruel, tragic and painful time in our history. However, despite the ensuing debate, we must give some recognition to our past – good or bad, as this is what shapes the present and oftentimes chart our course for the future.

Many of the privileges and advantages we currently enjoy and oftentimes take for granted, were secured through the sufferings and sacrifices of our ancestors, who faced arduous living and working conditions; and regrettably, many paid a great price with their lives.

This path to their freedom was paved by persons who displayed valour, determination and commitment, to ensuring that this abuse of human rights was stopped. This commemorative event affords us the opportunity to praise such persons and give due recognition to their vigorous struggles and campaigns, in bringing to a close, this brutal transatlantic trading in slaves.

Although the transatlantic trade in africans is officially at an end, the illegal trafficking of persons, especially our women and children for labour and sexual purposes, still continues in some parts of the world. This remains a matter of grave concern.

As we observe this event, let us grasp this opportunity to recall our rich and diverse history, which so many persons remain ignorant of, in particular the younger generation. Let us take this opportunity to examine and understand how the transatlantic trade in africans has impacted – whether positively or negatively, our country and region.

Whatever our thinking on the relevance of this period, I urge you as descendants, to not be “cloaked” in shame and remain haunted by the past, but to feel pride in the contributions our forefathers made to the social and economic development of our world. At this time, let us live the National Bicentenary Committee’s theme – “Our Freedom Journey: Honouring our Ancestors.”

Bruce Golding
Leader of the Opposition