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August 23rd • History & Justice

Remembrance of the Slave Trade

A day to honour the millions of victims of the transatlantic slave trade and to celebrate the courage of those who fought for its abolition. This history is not just about the past; it is about understanding the foundations of modern society and the ongoing struggle for human rights. Today, we debate the importance of historical memory, the concept of reparations, and how to combat modern forms of exploitation.

A symbol of freedom and the road to justice

Speaking Discussion

  • Why is it essential for every generation to learn about the darkest parts of human history, even if it is uncomfortable?
  • In your opinion, what is the best way for a country to honour the victims of its past injustices?
  • How did the abolitionist movement succeed against such powerful economic interests? What can we learn from their tactics?
  • Do you think that modern companies should be held responsible for the actions of their founders 200 years ago?
  • How does the legacy of the slave trade still influence social and economic structures in the world today?
  • What is the most effective way to identify and stop modern slavery (e.g., human trafficking or forced labour) in the 21st century?

Activity 1: The Memorial Design

The Task: You are an Architect. You have been asked to design a memorial for human rights in a major city centre.

How will your design make people think about the future as well as the past?

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Sentences

Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.

  • "The most important human right is..."
  • "We can prevent future injustice by..."
  • "In my opinion, the best way to learn from history is..."