At no other time in history has the demand for a global black identity been more apparent. Identifying how slavery, colonialism, and racism intersect and impact the lives of black people across the world is therefore critical to demanding reparations, fostering healing, and restoring dignity. It is against this backdrop that we are convening this global summit in Accra, Ghana.
In Africa, ongoing continental campaigns and discussions that had been stalled have been revived, albeit incongruently. The African Union (AU) for instance, has become more vocal in its demand for restitution for stolen African religious symbols and cultural relics, as well as a recognition of the African diaspora community in the advocacy for reparations. Through its various organs such as the Departments of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (DPAPS), Citizens and Diaspora Directorate (CIDO), Economic Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC), the AU has undertaken a series of initiatives to reach a common position on Reparations for Africa, and an advocacy campaign on reparations from former slave holders and colonial powers.
But there is a significant gap in this renewed energy for advocacy and political commitments. The discussions and debates, especially those within the African continent are happening in silos. The interventions seem half-hearted, the campaigns appear uncoordinated and there seems to be a lack of comprehensive strategy and agenda for reparations.