Every December, what quickly comes to our mind is the Christmas celebration. Did you know that International Day for the Abolition of Slavery is also observed every December? Now you know.
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People across the world celebrate International Day for the Abolition of Slavery to recognize the struggles against slavery and the war against modern exploitation. This is probably the first time you hear about the celebration. We’ll talk about the celebration’s origin, key objectives, reasons why it’s important for African descendants and much more.
What Is the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery?
The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery was established on December 2 by the United Nations to raise awareness, promote equal rights and eliminate modern slavery. It’s also to honor the efforts to eliminate the popular transatlantic slave trade. The day is a moment for both African and non-African descendants and organizations to join forces to fight against all forms of slavery.
The History Behind the Day
Understanding the historical context is essential to appreciate the essence of the day. It dates back as far as the transatlantic slave trade. It was a dark moment in human history, especially for black people, when millions were forced to migrate and were enslaved.
The UN General Assembly chose December 2, 1949, to mark the adoption of the UN Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others.
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The Importance of International Day for the Abolition of Slavery to African Descendants
Honoring Resilience and Strength
On this day, we commemorate the indomitable spirit of our ancestors who faced unimaginable hardships during the era of slavery. We honor the resilience, strength, and relentless perseverance they had to go through fighting for their freedom.
Read also: Who Started Slavery in Africa? The History and Facts You Probably Didn’t Know
Celebrating Freedom and Liberation
The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery reminds us of the several victories our ancestors achieved while fighting for freedom. During this day, we celebrate countless black heroes, including Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman, who fought for black rights and freedoms.
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Raising Awareness
Raising awareness is crucial in fostering understanding and unity among communities worldwide. It campaigns for equal rights and harmonious living among all races.
Empowering Future Generations
Educating ourselves and future generations about the abolition of slavery empowers us to break the cycle of historical injustice. It provides a foundation for cultivating a sense of identity, pride, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Promoting Social Justice
The fight against slavery in any form doesn’t end with its abolition. It should extend to ending modern-day slavery and fighting for social justice and equal rights for all. This day should motivate us to engage in conversations and actions that breed human rights.
Fostering Unity Among African Descendants
The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery serves as a unifying force among African descendants worldwide. It’s a shared moment to reflect on our common history, heritage, and the challenges we’ve overcome as a resilient community.
Key Objectives of the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
The key objectives for celebrating the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery include:
- Raise Awareness: Shed light on the prevalence of modern slavery and its impact globally.
- Commemorate History: Honor the victims of the transatlantic slave trade and acknowledge the abolitionist movements that fought against it.
- Advocate for Change: Act as a catalyst for action against contemporary forms of slavery, urging governments, organizations, and individuals to take a stand.
How You Can Get Involved in Raising Awareness
There are several ways to celebrate and raise awareness of this day. They include
- Educate Yourself: Learn about the history of slavery and its modern manifestations to become a knowledgeable advocate.
- Social Media Campaigns: Share information, resources, and relevant hashtags to raise awareness on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
- Participate in Events: Join local or virtual events, seminars, or workshops organized to commemorate the day.
- Support Anti-Slavery Organizations: Contribute to or volunteer with organizations actively working to combat modern slavery.
As we prepare for Christmas and become Black Santa Clauses, we should highlight and celebrate our black heroes who made the Internal Day for the Abolishment of Slavery possible. We should continue to deliberately raise awareness for the fight to end modern slavery in any form.
People also read: Slave Ship Rebellions: Africans’ Journey to Slavery Through the Seas
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