The family of former British Prime Minister William Gladstone has issued an apology for their family’s involvement in the slave trade in Guyana. The apology comes as many descendants of African slaves in Guyana have been seeking reparations for the injustices of the past.
William’s father, John Gladstone, was one of the largest slaveholders in the Caribbean regions colonized by Britain. He is also believed to have owned two ships that transported thousands of Asians from India and other places to work as indentured laborers after the abolition of slavery in 1834.
Charles Gladstone, William’s great-great grandson, expressed deep shame and regret for his ancestor’s involvement in the crime of slavery. He offered a heartfelt apology to the descendants of the enslaved in Guyana. Charles also urged other descendants of those who benefited from slavery to engage in conversations about their ancestors’ crimes and how they can contribute to building a better future.
However, the apology was met with strong opposition from several Guyanese descendants of African slaves who were present at the event. Protesters held placards accusing the Gladstone family of being murderers and demanding quick action on reparations.
Afro-Guyanese activist Nicole Cole, who was among the protesters, stated that while no apology can fully suffice, it is a step towards recognizing the crimes committed and the disruption caused to people’s lives.
Charles Gladstone and five other family members pledged their support for the work of the new University of Guyana’s International Centre for the Study of Migration and Diaspora. They also called on the United Kingdom to engage in talks with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on reparations. CARICOM is seeking not only a sincere formal apology but also the right of repatriation for descendants of enslaved individuals, debt cancellation, and the funding of cultural institutions such as slavery museums.
According to Eric Phillips, a member of the CARICOM Reparations Commission, research indicates that the British owe the descendants of Africans in Guyana over $1.2 trillion. Charles Gladstone acknowledged that he couldn’t comment on the actual monetary figure but suggested that the United Kingdom and European governments may be hesitant due to the magnitude of the amount.
In a separate development, Guyana President Irfaan Ali criticized the descendants of European slave traders, stating that those who profited from the transatlantic slave trade should offer reparations to today’s generations. He also proposed posthumously charging those involved in the slave trade for crimes against humanity.
President Ali called on the descendants of John Gladstone to outline their plan of action in line with CARICOM’s plan for reparatory justice for slavery and indentureship.
The apology by the Gladstone family and the ongoing discussions surrounding reparations highlight the importance of acknowledging historical injustices and working towards a more equitable future.
How do the protesters in Guyana demand concrete reparations from the Gladstone family?
E Gladstone family of empty gestures and demanding concrete reparations for the atrocities committed against their ancestors.
The Gladstone family’s apology for their involvement in the slave trade in Guyana has brought attention to the ongoing issue of reparations. As descendants of African slaves in Guyana seek retribution for the injustices faced by their ancestors, the acknowledgment of their family’s dark past by the Gladstones has sparked both support and controversy.
John Gladstone, William’s father, was a significant slaveholder in the British-colonized Caribbean regions. Additionally, he is believed to have owned two ships that transported thousands of Asians from India and other locations to work as indentured laborers post the abolition of slavery in 1834.
Charles Gladstone, the great-great grandson of William Gladstone, expressed deep shame and regret for his ancestor’s involvement in the slave trade. Recognizing the weight of the crimes committed, Charles offered a heartfelt apology to the descendants of the enslaved in Guyana. He also called upon others who have benefited from slavery to engage in conversations about their ancestors’ wrongdoings and consider ways to contribute to a better future.
However, not everyone viewed the apology as sincere or enough. Several Guyanese descendants of African slaves protested the event, holding placards that accused the Gladstone family of offering empty gestures devoid of actual reparations. These protesters demanded concrete actions and tangible efforts to right the wrongs of the past. The opposition highlights the ongoing struggle for justice and reparations faced by those affected by the slave trade.
The apology from the Gladstone family serves as an important reminder of the dark history that many descendants continue to grapple with. It sparks conversations around reparations and the responsibility of individuals and families who have benefitted from such oppressive systems. As the quest for justice and healing continues, it remains to be seen how the Gladstone family and others will respond to these demands and work towards a more equitable future.
