Legacy of slavery continues to haunt us –  Most Reverend Palmer Buckle

The Metropolitan Archbishop of Cape Coast, Most Rev. Charles Gabriel Palmer-Buckle has stated that the institution of slavery is one of humanity’s gravest sins, hence the legacy of Slavery continues to haunt the world.

Addressing these deep-rooted scars according to him, required not only historical reckoning but active engagement in justice and reparation measures.

“It denied millions of people their fundamental rights and dignity, subjecting them to unimaginable suffering” he bemoaned

Most Rev. Gabriel Palmer-Buckle expressed the concern when the National Catholic  Secretariat in collaboration with the German Bishops’ Conference, Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference, Justice and Peace Commission and the Directorate of Governance respectively, organised a week-long workshop at the Elmina Castle.

It was aimed at fostering dialogue and promoting actionable strategies for addressing the lingering impacts of slavery and the slave trade.

Most Rev. Gabriel Palmer-Buckle suggested that teaching history must include the full truth of slavery’s atrocities in various schools and the accomplishments and resilience of those who overcame it.

This, he explained, would help future generations understand the gravity of this history.

Reflecting on the aftermath of slavery, Most Rev. Gabriel Palmer-Buckle hoped “those who suffered and perished under this brutal system would be honored”

“Their descendants, many of whom are still grappling with the consequences of this history, deserve our empathy, solidarity, and a commitment to creating a fairer and more just world. This is a moral imperative for all of us. As faith leaders, traditional authorities, academics, activists, and policymakers gathered here today, our task is to look beyond the history of slavery and confront the challenges that remain. We must support initiatives that ensure racial justice, advance social equality, and foster a true spirit of reconciliation”, he added.

The President of the Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference, Most Rev. Matthew .K. Gyamfi observed that “the legacy of slavery and the slave trade continues to cast a long shadow over our world”.

He explained that “It is a stain on humanity that cannot be erased, but we must acknowledge its devastating impact and work towards healing and reconciliation”.

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