The United Nations General Assembly has voted to recognise the enslavement of Africans during the transatlantic slave trade as “the gravest crime against humanity”, a move advocates hope will pave the way for healing and justice.

The resolution - proposed by Ghana - called for this designation, while also urging UN member states to consider apologising for the slave trade and contributing to a reparations fund. It does not mention a specific amount of money.

The proposal was adopted with 123 votes in favour and three against - the United States, Israel and Argentina.

Countries like the UK have long rejected calls to pay reparations, saying today’s institutions cannot be held responsible for past wrongs.

  • ☂️-@lemmy.ml
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    5 hours ago

    that’s exactly the point you are making though.

    “we can’t help africa because the romans did it too! and then everyone will want restitution!”

    • BarneyPiccolo@lemmy.today
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      21 minutes ago

      if I believed that, I would say that, but I don’t believe that, and I didn’t say that. I will not engage with a liar who places their own words in quotes, and attributes them to me.

      Done with you.

      • ☂️-@lemmy.ml
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        11 minutes ago

        no, just some of the infamous whataboutism.

        no other empire has ever enslaved as much, or is still rich off of slavery. no “b-but rome”