UNICs Archive
The United Nations Outreach Programme on the Transatlantic Slave Trade and Slavery supports United Nations field offices throughout the world on their efforts to commemorate the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Activities typically range from solemn ceremonies to film screenings, exhibits, panel discussions, educational field trips and social media campaigns.
2024 2023 2022 2019 2018 2017 2016
2024
In 2024, United Nations Information Centres (UNICs), Resident Coordinator Offices (RCOs) and other United Nations entities throughout the world organized activities to promote the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade under the theme “Creating Global Freedom: Countering Racism with Justice in Societies and Among Nations.”
The Outreach Programme on the Transatlantic Slave Trade and Slavery provided the field offices with two exhibits and social media cards for their outreach activities. The exhibits included "Slavery: Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery", produced by the Amsterdam-based Rijksmuseum in English, French, and Spanish, and “Us and Them: From Prejudice to Racism,” produced by the Paris-based Musée de l’Homme in Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese and Spanish. The Outreach Programme also produced social media cards to promote the day in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.
AFRICA
Burundi
UNIC Bujumbura organized an educational outreach activity with 250 students at the Lycée of Rumonge, located in South-Western Burundi. Presentations were made by National Information Officer Desire Ndagijimana and English teacher Seth Hakizimana about the history of the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans and its legacies. Mr. Hakizimana highlighted the stories of two American figures who had contributed to the abolition of slavery: President Abraham Lincoln and freedom fighter Frederick Douglass. The students also watched the to the United Nations General Assembly’s 25 March meeting to commemorate the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Following the presentations, students toured the exhibit “Slavery: Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery.” Photo credit: UNIC Bujumbura
Cameroon
UNIC Yaoundé organized several in collaboration with the NGO Local Youth Corner. The activities included an interactive briefing with 30 students about the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans and a display of the exhibit "Slavery: Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery". The discussion touched on various themes including combatting racism within the students’ own environments and communities, ethnocentrism, modern-day slavery, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Following the briefing, the students had the opportunity to view the exhibit.
Photo credit: UNIC Yaoundé
Congo
UNIC Brazzaville partnered with the Department of History at the National University to organize a for 100 students to a historic site in Brazzaville City. The students visited the historic Port Léon, located on the banks of the Congo River, and learned about its connection to the transatlantic slave trade. Enslaved Africans from Northern Africa were trafficked through this port prior to the Middle Passage across the Atlantic. The students also visited the "Stèle de la poste des Caravanes”, which marks the point of no return for these enslaved Africans. A university professor briefed participants on the history of the transatlantic slave trade and the historic site.
Photo credit: UNIC Brazzaville
Ghana
UNIC Accra held an outreach at Ussher Fort for students from Bishop Mixed Junior High School and Mantse Tackie School to mark the international day. The event included an opening ceremony with remarks by United Nations officials, a dramatic performance, and a briefing by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) representative to Ghana about Ussher Fort’s connection to the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans. Representatives from the Ghana Museums and Monument Board also attended the event.
Photo credit: UNIC Accra
Kenya
UNIS Nairobi organized an educational with more than 80 students, teachers, and United Nations officials on 20 March 2024. The students from Braeside International and Arkyard Schools participated in an interactive briefing on the history and legacies of the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans, led by officials from UNIS Nairobi and UNESCO. The briefing began with a viewing of the exhibit “Slavery: Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery.” The students also watched the film “Slave Route: The Soul of Resistance.” Following the commemoration, UNIS Nairobi discussed with the schools the process of establishing United Nations clubs on their campuses – to provide a platform for continued learning and engagement on topics related to the United Nations agenda.
Photo credit: UNIS Nairobi
Nigeria
UNIC Abuja commemorated the occasion with an held at Government Secondary School Nyanya in the Federal Capital Territory of Abuja. The educational activity included a briefing on and a display of the exhibit "Slavery: Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery.” The briefing highlighted the history of the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans and its impact on the modern world, including its legacies of discrimination, racism, and prejudice. Students were encouraged to reflect on ways to combat modern forms of slavery and discrimination, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals aimed at fostering inclusive and just societies.
Photo credit: UNIC Abuja
Senegal
UNIC Dakar organized an interactive discussion with students from L’Université virtuelle Cheikh Ahmidou Kane in Dakar to mark the international day. Students heard presentations from United Nations officials and historians on the history of slavery and its relationship to racism in general, regional and international action to combat racism, and misinformation and disinformation. The Secretary-General’s message prepared for the day was also discussed. The UNIC displayed several panels from the "Us and Them: From Prejudice to Racism" exhibit.
Photo credit: UNIC Dakar
United Republic of Tanzania
UNIC Dar es Salaam collaborated with UNESCO and the Youth of the United Nations Association (YUNA) to organize an educational visit to Kilwa, an important historical site linked to enslavement, by students from the Kibasila, Chang’ombe, and Nzasa secondary schools and youth from various universities and colleges in Dar es Salaam. Highlights of the visit, which happened from 7 to 8 June, included tours of ruins of the Great Mosque of Kilwa Kisiwani and the Palace at Husuni Kubwa and Husuni Ndogo. Kilwa was a major stop on the route of the Indian Ocean trade in enslaved peoples during the 18th century. At its peak, more than 20,000 enslaved Africans were trafficked through the port annually. Today, Kilwa Kisiwani is recognized as a . According to UNIC Dar es Salaam, “This dark chapter in Kilwa's history is crucial for understanding the broader impacts of the transatlantic and Indian Ocean slave trades on the African continent.”
Photo credit: UNIC Dar es Salaam
Zambia
UNIC Lusaka collaborated with the Ministry of Education to organize an at Lusaka Girls Secondary School with more than 240 students. The outreach activity included a display of the exhibit “Slavery: Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery” and an interactive discussion on the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans. Following the discussion, the students had the opportunity to view the exhibit.
Photo credit: UNIC Lusaka
THE AMERICAS
Brazil
UNIC Rio de Janeiro conducted a social media campaign to promote the day under the theme "Creating Global Freedom: Countering Racism with Justice in Societies and Among Nations.” The campaign highlighted three international days in March: International Women's Day (8 March), the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (21 March) and the . The campaign reached 800K people and received more than 35K engagements. A card published on 25 March reached 64,915 people and received 11,920 engagements. In addition, the UNIC posted the social media card prepared for the day, which received a total of 14,121 impressions and 699 engagements.
Social Media Card: DGC
Port of Spain and Cura?ao
UNIC Port of Spain - For the 2024 commemoration of International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, UNIC Caribbean coordinated displays of the Rijksmuseum’s “Slavery: Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery” poster exhibit in English. The traveling exhibit was complemented by an online briefing session featuring curators of the Rijksmuseum exhibit and the Embassy of the Netherlands in Trinidad and Tobago. The UNIC also hosted smaller, on-site, information sessions for community and regional libraries that included material on the history, legacy and experience of people of African Descent, and the Rijksmuseum exhibit on Dutch colonial slavery. Each briefing was arranged to coincide as closely as possible with the following observances: Trinidad and Tobago’s Emancipation Day (1 August), International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition (23 August), and the International Day for People of African Descent (31 August). In addition, the UNESCO Office for the Caribbean collaborated with the United Nations Regional Office for South America to organize five additional displays of the “Slavery: Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery” exhibit and related educational activities at the Biblioteca Nacional Aruba (BNA) in San Nicolas, the National Archaeological Museum, Scol di Arte in San Nicolas and The National Archive history. Photo credit: UNESCO
Honduras
RCO Honduras organized a discussion and exhibit in La Ceiba, Honduras. The event began with a video produced for the day, which was followed by a presentation on the history of the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans. The main part of the event featured a panel discussion with members of Afro-descendant Garifuna communities and English-speaking Black communities, as well as remarks by high-level United Nations officials. Participants also had the opportunity to view an exhibit entitled “Voices that Transcend” by artist Cruz Bermúdez, a collection of portraits of emblematic Afro-descendant figures.
Photo credit: RCO Honduras
EUROPE
Switzerland
The UN Office at Geneva (UNOG) hosted a two-week aimed to confront the legacy of slavery and its contemporary impact through art. Inspired by Rosana Paulino's "Red Atlantic," colonial archives, and Paul Gilroy's "Black Atlantic" theory, the artworks, on display at the Palais des Nations from 15 to 26 April, explored the trauma endured by Africans and their descendants as a result of the transatlantic slave trade. By revisiting transatlantic imagery, the exhibition, hosted by the Permanent Mission of Brazil to UNOG, portrayed systemic inequalities throughout history affecting the Afro-Atlantic diaspora.
Photo credit: UNOG
2023
United Nations Information Centres (UNICs) in nine countries organized activities to mark the 2023 International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade under the theme “Fighting Slavery’s Legacy of Racism Through Transformative Education”.
The United Nations Outreach Programme on the Transatlantic Slave Trade and Slavery made available two exhibits: poster version of the "Slavery: Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery", available in English, French, and Spanish with translations in Arabic, Chinese, Hindi, Portuguese, Russian and Swahili as well as “Us and Them: From Prejudice to Racism” in Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese and Spanish. Additionally, there were two films available to the field offices: virtual screening of documentary “Who We Are: A Chronicle of Racism in America” and film “Bigger Than Africa” with French, Russian, Spanish, Swahili and Portuguese subtitles. Social media cards to mark the Day were available in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish, Hindi, Kiswahili and Portuguese.
The to mark the Day with subtitles in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German, Russian, Hindi, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish was disseminated before the commemoration.
AFRICA
Abuja, Nigeria
In observance of the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade UNIC Lagos organized in-person educational briefings on 24 March for 522 students at Premiere Academy secondary school in Lugbe Abuja and on 28 March for 311 students at Army Day Secondary School in Mambilla Barracks, Maitama Abuja. UNIC Lagos National Information Officer briefed students about the history of the transatlantic slave trade, including the local slave route of Badagry. The session addressed the dangers of prejudice and racism encouraging young people to take action to combat racial discrimination. The speaker also discussed the difference between the transatlantic slave trade and modern-day slavery. Students were urged to fight against discrimination and racism by raising awareness of the importance of tolerance, respect, and human dignity in their respective communities. Following the briefing, students visited an exhibit “Us and Them: From Prejudice to Racism” which revealed how racism flourished during the transatlantic slave trade. UNIC promoted the event on 缅北禁地in Nigeria and accounts reaching 2,500 views and 170 engagements.
Photo: Secondary school students attending a briefing and exhibit organized by UNIC Lagos in Abuja. Photo credit: UNIC Lagos
Brazzaville, Congo
On 20 April, to commemorate the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, UNIC Brazzaville displayed the exhibition - "Slavery: Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery." It presented ten true personal stories of people who were enslaved, people who profited from the system of slavery, and people who raised their voices against it. The stories focused on slavery in the Dutch colonial era, from the 17th to the 19th century showcasing examples from Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and the Caribbean. The exhibit mentioned Congo where one of the ports of embarkation of enslaved Africans called Loango slavery harbour is located and currently included in the World Heritage Tentative Lists. The opening event was attended by over 100 visitors, including officials from the Ministry of Culture and many students. Over the one-week period on display, the exhibition was visited by around 1,000 persons. One of visitors remarked that the event "is a practical way of learning more about the origin of racism." The event was promoted on account where it reached 210 views.
Photo: Opening of the exhibition “Slavery: Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery” in the 缅北禁地Information Centre in Brazzaville. Photo credit: UNIC Brazzaville
Bujumbura, Burundi
On 7 April, UNIC Bujumbura in partnership with Great Lakes University organized an educational briefing for 200 students at the Rutana Campus. The National Information Officer informed the audience about the objectives of the Outreach Programme on the Transatlantic Slave Trade and Slavery established by the United Nations General Assembly and the importance of raising awareness of the history of the transatlantic slave trade, its impact on the modern world, and its legacies, including racism and prejudice. Students learned how racism can lead to human rights abuses and made commitment to combat racial discrimination and promote respect for human rights. After the briefing students watched the film "Bigger than Africa" reflecting about the power of culture to unite people. The third element of the briefing was an exhibition entitled "Slavery: Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery.” The activity ended with an interactive question and answer session that allowed students to raise pertinent question and express their concerns about the modern-day slavery observed in Burundi and elsewhere in the world.
Photo: Exhibit “Slavery: Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery” on display in the Great Lakes University, Rutana campus in Burundi. Photo credit: UNIC Burundi
Dakar, Senegal
On 18 April, to commemorate the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Dakar organized a conference which brought together local and foreign students from three universities. Speakers included: Dr. Hilary Jones, Associate Professor of history in the University of Kentucky (USA), specialist in African history especially 19th and 20th century Senegal; Ms. Wilma Randle, journalist, historian, lecturer at Dakar BEM – DUNIS School; Ms. Ndèye Kha?ra Thiam, clinical psychologist and criminologist, feminist activist and specialist in sexual violence. The event was moderated by Mr. Stephane Ndione, lawyer and lecturer at Institut de Management (IMAN). Presentations focused on the role of transformative education in overcoming racial discrimination, as well as real life experiences of racism and discrimination encountered by the speakers. Interactive session with questions and answers to the three speakers about the history of the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans and its legacy of racism concluded the event. Tweets from the event reached close to a thousand views: , , . Video clip with students’ feedback is available on .
Photo: Moderator Mr. Stephane Ndione, lawyer and lecturer at Institut de Management (IMAN). Photo credit: UNIC Dakar
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
On 1 April the staff at United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) Dar es Salaam and 67 students travelled to Central Slavery Centre in Bagamoyo for a study tour to commemorate the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Participants came from three high schools - Kibasila, Nzasa, Chang'ombe - and the Youth of United Nations Association (YUNA). At the location, students were given a tour of Bagamoyo ruins, a former slave trade centre, followed by a speech by UNIC National Information Officer, Ms. Nafisa Didi who underlined the importance of raising awareness of the history of the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans and its modern legacy of racism. YUNA Communication Officer, Ms. Agnes Kabissa, also spoke about one of the darkest chapters of history which lasted 400-years and denied Africans their basic human rights. Students had an opportunity to ask questions before viewing an exhibition “Slavery: Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery” which featured ten stories from around the world of people who were enslaved, profited from the system or revolted against it. The exhibit was later moved to the 缅北禁地compound in Dar es Salaam to be viewed by 缅北禁地staff from 23 Agencies, Funds and Programmes present in Tanzania. Afterwards, the exhibit made a tour through the three high schools - Kibasila, Nzasa, Chang'ombe - before it was donated to the National Museum. The exhibit will be on view in different locations in Tanzania until 31 December 2023 for an estimated combined viewership of about 1,600 people. The event was covered by Manara TV and the nationwide daily newspaper “Daily News” as well as in the digital media YouTube and Instagram for a combined post view of 1,107.
Photo: High School students in Central Slavery Centre in Bagamoyo viewing the exhibit “Slavery: Ten True Stories of Dutch Colonial Slavery”. Photo credit: UNIC Dar es Salaam.
Lomé, Togo
On 13 April, United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Lomé organized a film screening and briefing in Maison des Esclaves (House of Slaves) in Agbodrafo about the history of the place and the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans. The briefing completement school curriculum for the 150 participants from primary and secondary school. UNIC Lomé National Information Officer, Ms. Nadiétou Zibilila, spoke to students before the film screening about the history and legacy of slave trade as well as the need to combat racism through transformative education. Following the screening of the film “History of the House of Slaves in Agbodrafo”, Mr. Arenim, literature teacher at Agbodrafo primary school continued the lecture about the causes and consequences of trade in enslaved Africans. After the discussion, students received a tour of the House of Slaves by the local guide showing the cellar where slaves were kept before embarking on the Middle Passage. The event was covered by on-line paper in Togo’s Matin Libre and VOA multimedia news organization as well as in traditional printed media – Actu-Plus.
Photo: Students visiting the House of Slaves and viewing a film about the history of the transatlantic trade in enslaved Africans. Photo credit: UNIC Lomé.
THE AMERICAS
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Rio organized the 2nd edition of digital listening campaign to combat racial discrimination (“Escuta Digital: Histórias sobre Racismo”) creating ten digital stories which included five animated video clips and five social media cards. The testimonies of people who faced racism in their daily lives were collected from the general public and published on @ONUBrasil digital platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter from 21 to 25 March culminating in the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. The focus this year was on the 2023 theme – “Fighting Slavery’s Legacy of Racism Through Transformative Education”. The campaign reached more than 240,000 people nearly 200,000 impressions on Instagram, 13,300 on Facebook, 28,500 on Twitter and 635 views on TikTok. The products also had 6,326 engagements on Instagram, 590 on Facebook and 412 on Twitter. The interim director of UNIC Rio, Roberta Caldo, explained that the initiative helped their audience to reflect on how the slave trade and slavery created deep inequalities in Brazilian society and its modern-day consequences. 缅北禁地News, UNHCR, UNHCHR and other local agencies, funds and programs also shared some assets of the campaign. The material was sent to Lusophone countries and will be used in internal workshops about racism in Trinidad Tobago.
Articles on 缅北禁地in Brazil website:
Photo: Social media card from the digital listening campaign organized by UNIC Rio in Brazil.
2022
United Nations Information Centres (UNICs) in four countries organized activities to mark the 2022 International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade under the theme “Stories of Courage: Resistance to Slavery and Unity against Racism”.
The United Nations Outreach Programme on the Transatlantic Slave Trade and Slavery made available the exhibit “Us and Them: From Prejudice to Racism” in Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese and Spanish. Social media cards to mark the Day were prepared in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish, Hindi, Kiswahili and Portuguese.
The Secretary-General’s to mark the Day was shared with UNICs with subtitles in Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish and Portuguese. UNIC Ankara also added for its audiences.
Mexico City, Mexico
The United Nations Global Communications Department brought to Mexico “Slavery, ten true stories of Dutch colonial Slavery”, the Dutch Colonial Slavery Exhibition by the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, and it was displayed at the second edition of the Global Forum against Racism and Discrimination organized by UNESCO at Centro Cultural Los Pinos in Mexico City on November 28 and 29.
The exhibition was on display to the public for over a month until January 9, 2023. It will be presented at the United Nations Headquarters in New York between February and March 2023.
Through the ten stories and testimonies of women and men that make up the exhibition, aspects of colonial slavery are revealed, shaped by a massive global trade guided by ideologies of white supremacy, domination, and dehumanization, causing millions to suffer atrocities, violence, and injustice for generations.
Jayashri Wyatt, chief of the Education Outreach Unit of United Nations Communications Department, emphasized that to end racism and discrimination worldwide and achieve restorative justice, it is imperative to understand the specific and international history of colonial slavery through the voices, real stories, and experiences.
This exhibition seeks to offer a deeper understanding of the slavery system by analyzing the role of the people involved in this phenomenon and how they intervened in it. Its purpose is to raise questions about injustice as a universal phenomenon and the role of individuals in the protection of human rights.
Photo: From left to right: Monique Van Daalen, Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to UNESCO; Gabriela Ramos, Assistant Director-General for Social and Human Sciences at UNESCO; Jayashri Wyatt, Chief of the Educational Outreach Section of the United Nations Department of Global Communications. Photo credit: Mariana Castro, UNIC México.
Brazzaville, Congo
On 14 April, UNIC Brazzaville, in collaboration with Chaminade Public High School, organized a screening of the film The Road of Slavery to mark the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Following a briefing by National Information Officer Propser Mihindou-Ngoma, students engaged in a conversation about sites of memory and slavery. Approximately 100 students participated in the event. The UNIC promoted the Day on its account.
Photo: UNIC Brazzaville organized an educational event at Chaminade Public High School. Photo credit: UNIC Brazzaville.
Bujumbura, Burundi
To mark the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, UNIC Bujumbura organized an educational outreach activity in collaboration with Rotaract Club Ngozi, a student association of the University of Ngozi. The activity took place on 31 March at the university. National Information Officer Desire Ndagijimana briefed the students on the United Nations Outreach Programme on the Transatlantic Slave Trade and Slavery and spoke about the history of slavery. Fulgence Twizerimana of Ngozi University also gave a presentation on slavery. Students participated in several activities, including a screening of the film The Slave Route: The Soul of Resistance, a tour of the exhibition "Us and Them: From Prejudice to Racism", and a question-and-answer session focused on lessons learned from the event.
Photo: UNIC Bujumbura organized an educational event at the University of Ngozi. Photo credit: UNIC Bujumbura
Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania
On 24 March 2022, UNIC Dar es Salaam organized an educational programme with more than 100 students from the Kivinje and Dodomezi Secondary Schools to mark the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. The programme began with a discussion on the transatlantic slave trade and slavery. The students learned about the local history of the slave trade and how the town of Kilwa was once a major centre for the trade in ivory and enslaved Africans trafficked from mainland Tanganyika and beyond. The message of the Secretary-General prepared for the Day was disseminated. The exhibit entitled “Us and Them: From Racism to Prejudice” was displayed at the two schools, and students had an opportunity to tour the exhibit prior to visiting slave trade ruins on the island of Kilwa Kisiwani. The UNIC worked with Tanzania National Parks officials to coordinate a visit to the island, on 25 March 2022. At Kilwa Kisiwani, students visited sites where enslaved Africans were held and places where offenders were thrown to die. Students visited slave traders’ forts and exhumed mosques and ruins. The Centre produced a video on the history of the slave trade and the visit to Kilwa Kisiwani and promoted the activities on its account.
Photo: UNIC Dar es Salaam organized an educational event with students from the Kivinje and Dodomezi Secondary Schools. Photo credit: UNIC Dar es Salaam
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
UNIC Rio entitled “Stories of Racism”. The initiative highlighted stories of racism and was promoted on @ONUBrasil social media platforms. Participants were asked to submit stories inspired by the theme “Stories of Courage: Resistance to Slavery and Unity against Racism”. During the five-day campaign, fourteen stories about racism were posted. It was launched on 21 March, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, and ended on 25 March, the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. The campaign reached 170,964 people and it included two cards, one video and 15 Instagram stories. The Instagram stories reached 43,000 people and received 52,000 views.
2019
United Nations Offices and Information Centres across the globe organized a total of 56 activities in 22 countries to mark the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Held under the theme “Remember Slavery: The Power of the Arts for Justice”, activities ranged from film screenings and panel discussions to exhibits and visits to slavery-related ruins.
The United Nations Remember Slavery Programme provided educational materials including a poster exhibit entitled “Remember Slavery: Say It Loud” in all six official languages of the United Nations, plus Kiswahili and Portuguese. The exhibit features 11 female and 10 male architects of African descent who have contributed to the field of architecture.
The film Slavery Routes: 1620 -1789: From sugar to rebellion was offered in English, French, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish. The United Nations Office (UNO) in Minsk and the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Bogotá created subtitles for the film in Russian and Spanish.
AFRICA
Antananarivo, Madagascar
On 27 March 2019, the UNIC in Antananarivo worked with partners in the 缅北禁地system and the National Independent Commission on Human Rights to organize a commemorative ceremony to mark the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Participants included representatives from civil society and students from local universities. The UNIC also organized an exhibition on the United Nations Permanent Memorial to Honour the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, also known as the Ark of Return, which was displayed at schools and universities. In addition, the Centre organized two workshops on modern slavery, held at the UNIC and Estiim University; and a screening of the film Slavery Routes: 1620 -1789: From sugar to rebellion.
Photo: A student poses a question at the commemorative ceremony organized by UNIC Antananarivo. Photo credit: UNIC Antananarivo
Brazzaville, Congo
On the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, UNIC Brazzaville organized an outreach event for 100 university students. In his introductory remarks, UNIC National Information Officer Prosper Mihindou-Ngoma spoke about several of the Sustainable Development Goals that were relevant to remembrance of the transatlantic slave trade and modern slavery, including Goals 16 and 17. The students received t-shirts, produced by the Centre and a brochure about the Ark of Return. Participants also viewed the Secretary-General's video message for the day prior to listening to remarks by a guest speaker on the social, economic and cultural legacy of enslaved people from the Central Africa region in Haiti. A question and answer session followed.
Photo: UNIC National Information Officer Prosper Mihindou-Ngoma with participants at the commemorative event to mark the International Day in Brazzaville. Photo credit: UNIC Brazzaville
Bujumbura, Burundi
Almost 150 students from the Lycée of Bujumbura Islamic Cultural Centre participated in an outreach activity to mark the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, on 27 March 2019 at the UNIC Bujumbura office. The programme included a briefing to students on the transatlantic slave trade, a screening of the Secretary-General’s video message prepared for the day, a screening of the film Heart of Lion and a visit to the exhibit “Remember Slavery: Say It Loud”. The event concluded with a lively discussion where students discussed the causes, consequences and lessons of the transatlantic slave trade and the dangers of racism that persist today.
Photo: A student poses a question at the commemorative briefing to mark the International Day in Bujumbura. Photo credit: UNIC Bujumbura
Dakar, Senegal
UNIC Dakar, in cooperation the Higher Institute of Management (ISM) and the Lycée d’Excellence Birago Diop, organized a commemorative event on 30 April 2019 at the ISM. More than 250 students of different nationalities participated in a discussion led by a professor of history on the transatlantic slave trade and the significance of the Ark of Return. UNIC Dakar produced . This activity was part of a more comprehensive programme scheduled to take place in June 2019.
Photo: Students from the Lycée d’Excellence Birago Diop in Dakar. Photo credit: UNIC Dakar
Harare, Zimbabwe
UNIC Harare commemorated the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade on 25 March. The commemoration was held with more than 100 students and lecturers at the Catholic University of Zimbabwe. The guest speaker was Daniel Sam, Head of Migration and Development at the International Organization for Migration (IOM). During his presentation, Sam highlighted the interlinkages between modern forms of slavery and migration. Meanwhile, Tafadzwa Mwale of UNIC Harare provided background on the International Day. The UNIC also mounted the exhibition “Remember Slavery: Say it Loud” outside the meeting area. The exhibition was donated to the university.
Photo: Participants at the commemorative event held in Harare to mark the International Day. Photo credit: UNIC Harare
Lagos, Nigeria
UNIC Lagos collaborated with the Lagos State Education District V to hold a commemorative event to mark the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade at Badagry Grammar School, on 25 March 2019. More than 1,000 students participated in activities related to drama, poetry and song, which recounted the ills of slavery. Participants also had the opportunity to view the exhibit “Remember Slavery: Say It Loud”. The event featured a visit to the Mobee Royal Palace, the Mobee Royal Family Slave Relics Museum and the Badagry Heritage Museum, located along the Badagry Slave Route.
Photo: More than 1,000 students participated in commemorative events at Badagry Grammar School in Lagos. Photo credit: UNIC Lagos
Lomé, Togo
To mark the International Day, UNIC Lomé organized several commemorative activities. On 19 March, the UNIC organized a visit with 200 students to the Wood House, which was built in 1835 and owned by Scottish slave trader John Henry Wood. Enslaved Africans were held in the cellar and taken to the Puit des encha?nés (Well of the Chained) for their last bath before being sent to the Americas. The UNIC also organized commemorative events on 25 March, which included a screening and discussion of the film Slavery Routes: 1620-1789: From sugar to rebellion and an exhibit of the Ark of Return.
Photo: UNIC Lomé organizes a visit to the Wood House, once owned by a Scottish slave trader. Photo credit: UNIC Lomé
Lusaka, Zambia
UNIC Lusaka marked the International Day by organizing two educational outreach activities at two schools in Lusaka province, involving more than 950 students. The activities included a screening and discussion of the film Slavery Routes: 1620 -1789: From sugar to rebellion. The discussion focused on the causes of the transatlantic slave trade, its legacy in Africa and the importance of educating children about human rights abuses. The activities were organized in partnership with the Ministry of General Education. In addition, the UNIC displayed a poster exhibition on the transatlantic slave. UNIC Lusaka also engaged in a social media campaign to promote the International Day on Facebook and Twitter, as well as through bulk SMS, reaching 40,000 mobile phone users.
Photo: Students participate in a film screening at Lusaka Girls High School. Photo credit: UNIC Lusaka
Nairobi, Kenya
The UNIC in Nairobi marked the International Day through several events including a commemorative ceremony, a display of the exhibit “Remember Slavery: Say It Loud” and a screening and discussion of the film Slavery routes: 1620 – 1789: From sugar to rebellion. More than 500 students from 12 universities attended the commemorative ceremony, which included remarks by Paul Zeleza, Vice Chancellor of the United States International University-Africa (USIU), and Godfrey Nienga, a lecturer from Riara University. UNIC Deputy Director Newton Kanhema delivered the Secretary-General’s message and moderated the discussion. Later, on 10 May, the UNIC facilitated the participation of Kenyan students in the eleventh annual United Nations Remember Slavery Global Student Videoconference.
Photo: Student participants participate in a film screening at UNIC Nairobi. Photo credit: UNIC Nairobi
Yaoundé, Cameroon
The International Day was commemorated by UNIC Yaoundé on 26 March with an educational event held at the Holy Cross International College in Yaoundé. Representatives of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the United Nations Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Central Africa participated in the discussion. The main objective of the event was to encourage students to fight against discrimination by raising awareness of the dangers of racism and prejudice today. Highlights of the event included a panel discussion, a display of the exhibit “Remember Slavery: Say It Loud”, a screening and discussion of the film Slavery Routes 1620 – 1789: From sugar to rebellion, and a sketch performed by Members of the UNESCO Federation Club..
Photo: Students participate in a commemorative event held in Yaoundé. Photo credit: UNIC Yaoundé
THE AMERICAS
Bogotá, Colombia
UNIC Bogotá organized an event focusing on creative solutions to climate change within the Afro-descendent community of Tumaco, which has been disproportionately affected by armed conflict and illegal economies. Speakers included UNIC Director Helene Papper and representatives of the World Food Programme (WFP) and the Colombian Secretary of the Environment. The UNIC screened the documentary film Slavery Routes: 1620 -1789: From sugar to rebellion, which was followed by a panel discussion and a screening of the film Chocolate Caliente. With the support of WFP, the Tumaco community has developed the art of chocolate-making based on ancestral knowledge.
Photo: Panelists at the commemorative event organized by UNIC Bogota. Photo credit: UNIC Bogota
Panama City, Panama
The UNIC in Panama organized commemorative events throughout May in connection with Panama’s Black Ethnicity Month. It displayed the exhibit “A Legacy of Black Achievement” at the University of Panama’s Faculty of the Humanities. The exhibit was also shown at the university’s library. The UNIC complemented the exhibit with a display of photos of Afro-Panamanians who promoted positive changes in education, journalism, human rights and other fields. The UNIC also collaborated with UNESCO to launch UNESCO’s publication entitled Legacies of Slavery: A Resource Book for Managers of Sites and Itineraries of Memory.
Photo: Launch of UNESCO publication Legacies of Slavery: A Resource Book for Managers of Sites and Itineraries of Memory in Panama. Photo credit: UNIC Panama
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
On 7 May 2019, UNIC Rio de Janeiro organized a screening and discussion of the documentary film Slavery Routes: 1620-1789: From sugar to rebellion. The event was opened by UNIC Director Maurizio Giuliano, who spoke about the history of the transatlantic slave trade and forms of modern slavery. The screening was followed by a debate moderated by Raquel Quintiliano, Associate Professor for Public Policy and Human Rights at the Universidade Federal de Roraima (UFR). Presentations were made by Fernanda Barros, a doctoral student in Political Science at the Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF), and Filó Filho, a cultural producer and organizer of Black Movement Rio, CULTNE and the festival Flisamba. The presentations focused on the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade in Brazil. Some 120 people participated in the event, which was held at the premises of the Itamaraty Palace. The UNIC also organized an exhibit featuring diplomatic correspondence from the Itamaraty Palace dating back to the transatlantic slave trade.
Photo: Participants at the film screening of Slavery routes: 1620 – 1789; From Sugar to Rebellion, held in Brazil. Photo credit: UNIC Rio de Janeiro
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
Islamabad, Pakistan
To mark the International Day, UNIC Islamabad organized a screening and discussion of the film Slavery Routes: 1620 -1789: From sugar to rebellion. The screening was organized in cooperation with the Inter University Consortium for the Promotion of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities, Pakistan, and COMSATS University Islamabad. In his opening remarks, Resident Coordinator and WFP Country Director Finbarr Curran shared his reflections on the transatlantic slave trade and underscored the importance of commemorating the International Day. Students discussed the causes of slavery, as well as modern slavery. Other speakers included Shahida Gilani and Asif Jah from the Human Trafficking and Migrant Smuggling Unit at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and Adnan Fida, the Faculty Head at COMSATS University.
Photo: Speakers at the screening and discussion of the film Slavery Routes: 1620 -1789: From sugar to rebellion in Pakistan. Photo credit: UNIC Islamabad
New Delhi, India
The UNIC for India and Bhutan marked the International Day by organizing activities in collaboration with the India International Centre, an influential think tank in New Delhi. The UNIC displayed the poster exhibit “Remember Slavery: Say It Loud” from 25 to 31 March. The exhibit received more than 800 visitors. The UNIC also screened the film Slavery Routes: 1620 - 1789: From sugar to rebellion and created seven social media cards to generate momentum. The cards generated around 2000 impressions each.
Photo: Display of the exhibit “Remember Slavery: Say It Loud” in New Delhi. Photo credit: UNIC New Delhi
EUROPE
Geneva, Switzerland
The United Nations Information Service (UNIS) in Geneva organized several events to mark the International Day. The exhibition “Remember Slavery: Say It Loud” was displayed at the Palais des Nations, from 25 March to 18 April 2019. UNIS Geneva also organized a screening of the film Slavery Routes: 1620 -1789: From sugar to rebellion.
Minsk, Belarus
On 25 March, the UNO in Minsk organized several events in cooperation with the Belarusian State University’s International Relations Faculty. Those included a screening of the film Slavery Routes: 1620 - 1789: From Sugar to Rebellion, which was translated into Russian by the UNO, and a display of the exhibit “Remember Slavery: Say It Loud”. Both events were held at the university. In his introductory remarks to participants, United Nations National Information Officer Victor Radivinovski spoke about the history of the transatlantic slave trade and modern slavery. A representative of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) spoke about the agency’s efforts in combatting human trafficking.
Photo: Display of the exhibit “Remember Slavery: Say It Loud” in Belarus. Photo credit: UNO Minsk
Yerevan, Armenia
UNO Yerevan receives a group of 70 students for a discussion and screening of the film Slavery Routes 1620 – 1789: From sugar to Rebellion. Photo credit: UNO Yerevan
2018
A student asks a question at an event organized by UNIC Nairobi. Photo credit: UNIC Nairobi
The global network of United Nations Information Centres (UNICs) held special events across the globe to mark the 2018 International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade (25 March). The 2018 commemorative activities were held under the theme "Remember Slavery: Triumphs and Struggles for Freedom and Equality”.
Events organized by the Centres ranged from film screenings and discussions to visits to slave ruins and cultural performances. The United Nations Remember Slavery Programme provided educational materials, including a poster exhibit entitled “A Legacy of Black Achievement” in all six official languages of the United Nations, and a film entitled Familiar Faces: Unexpected Places—A Global African Diaspora in French, Spanish and Portuguese. The exhibit features 22 notable personalities of people of African descent from various fields of work.
The exhibit featured 21 notable personalities from various backgrounds, eras, regions and disciplines who paved the way for civil and human rights. The film highlighted the countless Afro-communities found in unexpected parts of the world, such as Turkey and India, and shows how African descendants maintained elements of their cultural. Additional support materials included the 2018 Ark of Return Calendar, stickers and notepads.
In total, almost 90 activities were organized in 23 countries by the Centres.
AFRICA
Accra, Ghana
In collaboration with Ashesi University College, UNIC Accra organized two commemorative events which included the exhibition “A Legacy of Black Achievement”, and a screening and discussion of the film Familiar faces, Unexpected Places - A Global African Diaspora.
Antananarivo, Madagascar
To mark the international day, UNIC Antananarivo organized a commemorative event on 25 March, which included a workshop, exhibition and panel discussion. Speakers discussed the atrocities that took place during the transatlantic slave trade and modern forms of slavery such as domestic service, forced marriage, human trafficking and underemployment.
Brazzaville, Congo
In partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, UNIC Brazzaville hosted a screening and discussion of the documentary film Familiar Faces/Unexpected Places: A Global African Diaspora. The students and educators in attendance learned about the slave route from Brazzaville to Loango and received a promotional card about the Ark of Return.
UNIC Bujumbura, Burundi
UNIC Bujumbura organized a student briefing and screening of the film Familiar Faces/Unexpected Places—A Global African Diaspora and mounted the exhibit “A Legacy of Black Achievement”.
UNIC Dakar
UNIC Dakar organized a screening and discussion of the film The Gorée Memorial, A Monument of African Renaissance in Transatlanticism, in partnership with the Gorée Memorial Foundation. The film tells the journey of the Foundation and its goal to build a monument for the remembrance of the victims of slave trade. The event took place on 27 March at the UNIC. In addition, the UNIC displayed the exhibit “A Legacy of Black Achievement” and screened the film Familiar Faces/Unexpected Places—A Global African Diaspora.
Harare, Zimbabwe
On 26 March, UNIC Harare organized a commemorative event at the Rainbow Towers Hotel. The event began with a viewing of the exhibit “A Legacy of Black Achievement” and was followed by a commemorative ceremony. In his keynote address, Mr. Vusamuzi Ntonga of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade paid tribute to the victims of the slave trade and spoke about modern day slavery. Participants also screened the film Familiar Faces/Unexpected Places—A Global African Diaspora.
Lagos, Nigeria
UNIC Lagos organized a commemorative ceremony on 26 March at the African Church College Ifako Lagos. The event included an educational briefing of the exhibit “A Legacy of Black Achievement” and a screening of the film Familiar Faces/Unexpected Palces—A Global African Diaspora. UNIC Director Ronald Kayanja underscored the 70th anniversary of the Declaration of Human Rights and urged youth in attendance to emulate fellow diasporan Africans who have lived above prejudice and discrimination.
Lomé, Togo
UNIC Lomé organized an educational event that included a briefing, a screening of the film Familiar Faces/Unexpected Places—A Global African Diaspora and a display of the exhibit “A Legacy of Black Achievement”. The event took place on Tuesday, 20 March 2019 at the Collège Protestant Lomé-Agbalépédogan, with the participation of 1900 students and professors. The event was part of the college’s “Cultural Week”.
Lusaka, Zambia
On 26 and 29 March, UNIC organized two outreach activities at Slaveryat Chibombo Secondary School and Moomba Secondary School in Zambia’s Central Province. Organized in partnership with the Ministry of General Education, the activities included a screening and discussion of the film Familiar Faces/Unexpected Places—A Global African Diaspora and a display of the exhibit “A Legacy of Black Achievement”.
Nairobi, Kenya
UNIC Nairobi hosted more than 300 students from eight local universities for a commemorative event, which included a screening and discussion of the film “Familiar Faces/Unexpected Places—A Global African Diaspora and display of the exhibit “A Legacy of Black Achievement”. The interactive discussion with students focused on the legacy of slavery and present-day survivors of modern day slavery.
Ouagadougo, Burkina Faso
In partnership with the University of Ouagadougou, UNIC organized lectures about slavery and the transatlantic slave trade, a screening of the film Familiar Faces/Unexpected Places - A Global African Diaspora, and a display of the exhibit “A Legacy of Black Achievement”. The commemorative events took place at the UNIC and ten different high schools, with almost 8,000 students in attendance.
Pretoria, South Africa
On 22 March, UNIC Pretoria organized an educational event with students from Rosebank Primary School in Johannesburg. The event included a screening and discussion of the film Familiar Faces/Unexpected Place – A Global African Diaspora. Students engaged in a robust discussion about slavery, migration and modern-day slavery in relation to current issues in South Africa such as labour practices and working hours for various people in different employment sectors.
Yaoundé, Cameroon
UNIC organized an educational event at the National Museum in Yaoundé, which included a panel discussion and display of the exhibit titled “A Legacy of Black Achievement”. History students from secondary schools and universities in Yaoundé, and youth representatives from the NGO “Pan African Youth network for Culture of Peace” exchanged information on slavery and 缅北禁地actions and conventions to completely eradicate discrimination, prejudice and racism today. UNIC Yaoundé provided information kits to the more than 105 participants.
THE AMERICAS
Bogot?, Colombia
UNIC Bogota, in close collaboration with the local community of Palenque, produced an original audio-photo documentary exhibit titled Palenque: La Herencia de la Libertad, which highlighted the legacy of freedom in a community of descendants of marooned slaves. The exhibit opened on Friday, 23 March at the Fundación Centro de Cultura Afrocaribe, and visitors were also invited to view the film Familiar Faces/ Unexpected Places - A Global African Diaspora. The exhibit and film rotated to Casa de Cultura in Palenque Village from April 16 to mid-May, and to the Afro community of Pasacaballos, from mid-May until the end of June. Hundreds of students and members of the Afro-communities had the opportunity to explore the African diaspora through the documentary film, and their own Afro-Colombian legacy through the Palenque exhibit.
Mexico City, Mexico
UNIC Mexico organized the participation of Carol Bauer International School in the 10th Annual Global Student Video Conference, which was organized by the Remember Slavery Programme, at United Headquarters in New York, on Friday 27 April 2018. Students from Mexico were invited to share their research on an event or individual that was significant in the struggle for freedom and equality leading up to and post abolition. The programme included a presentation by the Deputy Permanent Representative of Mauritius to the United Nations, Mr. Soomauroo; a lecture by Professor Christian Crouch of Bard College; and a presentation by Hossam Younes of Rodney Leon Architects on the Ark of Return.
Panama City, Panama
UNIC Panama City supported the 2018 General Assembly Commemorative Meeting in New York and the participation of Graciela Dixon, former Chief Justice of Panama, who served as the keynote speaker. The UNIC will screen the film Familiar Faces/Unexpected Places—A Global African Diaspora in August 2018.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
In 2018, UNIC Rio held a film screening and discussion of the film Familiar Faces/Unexpected Places—A Global African Diaspora. Discussions focused on the Quilombolas, descendants of Afro-Brazilian slaves who escaped plantations, and who struggle for the right to own land today. Participating in the discussion was Professor Luiz Rufino, Doctor in Education at Rio de Janeiro State University.
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
Canberra, Australia
In partnership with the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture (ACC&C) and the civil society organizations STOP THE TRAFFIK and Anti-Slavery Australia, UNIC Canberra organized a forum titled “Ending Slavery: Forum on Combatting Slavery Today”. UNIC Director, Christopher Woodthorpe, opened the evening and spoke about the origins of the Day and the exhibit “Remember Slavery: A Legacy of Black Achievement”, which was on display. Guest speaker Grace Thangasamy spoke about modern-day forms of slavery and the legal work she and others were undertaking to combat it.
New Delhi, India
UNIC organized a commemoration at the Ethiopian Cultural Centre in New Delhi. Participants were invited to visit the exhibit titled “A Legacy of Black Achievers”, which was followed by a screening and discussion of the film Familiar Faces/Unexpected Places: A Global African Diaspora, Following the commemorative event, the exhibition was displayed at the Art Gallery of the India International Centre Annexe, until 6 April 2018.
EUROPE
Geneva, Switzerland
The exhibit “A Legacy of Black Achievement” was displayed at the Palais des Nations from 16 to 30 March. The UNIC also disseminated the Secretary-General’s message prepared for the day.
Minsk, Belarus
UNO Minsk subtitled the film Familiar Faces/Unexpected Places—A Global African Diaspora in Russian, and held a screening and discussion of the film at MITSO University.
Yerevan, Armenia
UNO Yerevan organized a screening and discussion of the film Familiar Faces/Unexpected Places – A Global African Diaspora, with students from the Gegharkuniq community. The UNO translated the script into Armenian and consecutive translation was provided during the screening. The UNO also produced a roll-up banner, stickers, bookmarks, notepads, pens, handouts and brochures for distribution to participants.
2017
A student asks a question at an event organized by UNIC Bujumbura. Photo credit: UNIC Bujumbura
The global network of United Nations Information Centres (UNICs) held special events throughout the world in 2017 to highlight the messages of the United Nations Remember Slavery Programme and mark the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade (25 March). The 2017 theme was "Remember Slavery: Recognising the Legacy and Contributions of People of African Descent".
Events organized by the UNICs ranged from film screenings and educational field trips to informational exhibits, cultural performances and panel discussions. The United Nations Remember Slavery Programme provided educational materials, including a poster exhibit in all of the United Nations’ six official languages, entitled “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development”. The exhibit’s 13 posters highlighted the tenth anniversary of the United Nations Remember Slavery Programme, the work of the International Decade for People of African Descent, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Slave Route Project, contributions of the African diaspora and the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade. Additional support materials included calendars in all of the United Nations’ six official languages featuring The Ark of Return, the Permanent Memorial to Honour the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade at the United Nations.
Nearly 70 activities were organized in 20 countries.
AFRICA
Accra, Ghana
UNIC Accra organised several activities that reached more than 1,000 students from three schools in Assin Manso, a town in Ghana’s Central Region. On 30 March, the UNIC screened the documentary “They Are We”, about a Cuban family searching for its origins in Africa, which was produced by Emma Christopher and Sergio Leyva Seiglie. Following the film, a discussion was held with the students. A poster exhibit titled “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development” was displayed at the Assin Manso Senior High School, and the UNIC briefed students about it during a two day period. The exhibit remained on display for several weeks upon the school’s request. On 31 March, students toured the Slave River site where they were briefed by the site manager. It is believed that enslaved Africans from northern Ghana and other West African countries were held at Slave River to receive their last bath, be auctioned and get branded before being taken to the slave castle in Cape Coast and transported out of the country. Based on the students’ feedback, the Slave River tour was particularly enlightening as even the students from the region acknowledged that that they had not known about the role of the river in the transatlantic slave trade. Photo: “Remember Slavery” event in Ghana. Photo credit: UNIC Accra
Brazzaville, Congo
More than 50 university students attended a screening organised by UNIC Brazzaville of the documentary film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess,” which was written, produced and directed by Roy Anderson. Following the screening, there was a presentation by a university professor on the transatlantic slave trade and the contributions of enslaved Africans to their new societies. Students were then led in a discussion about the presentation. Wall calendars featuring The Ark of Return, the Permanent Memorial to Honour the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade at the United Nations, were distributed to all participants.
Photo: Participants in Brazzaville hold calendars featuring The Ark of Return. Photo credit: UNIC Brazzaville
Dakar, Senegal
In partnership with the Gorée Memorial, UNIC Dakar displayed the poster exhibit “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development” at the Chambre de Commerce, d’Industire et d’Agriculture de Dakar (CCIAD). The exhibit opening featured remarks by the Secretary General of the Gorée Memorial, the Director of Cultural Heritage Department and UNIC Dakar’s Officer in Charge. There was also a cultural performance by dancer and choreographer Ba?dy B?. Following the exhibit opening, there was a public panel discussion on the contributions of people of African descent to contemporary music in Africa. The panel consisted of: Mr. Amadou Lamine Sall. Secretary General of the Gorée Mémorial; Mr. Abdou Aziz Mbaye, Minister and Special Advisor to the President and Chairman of the Board of the Gorée Mémorial; Mr. Ndiouga Benga, Professor at Dakar University; and Mr. Abdoul Aziz Guisse, Director of the Cultural Heritage Department.
Photo: “Remember Slavery” poster exhibit in Senegal. Photo credit: UNIC Dakar
Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania
Photo: Students on educational field trip in Tanzania. Photo credit: UNIC Dar es Salaam
UNIC Dar es Salaam organized a two day educational field trip to the slave ruins in Kilwa District. Participants included 50 students and two teachers from several schools in Dar es Salaam and Kilwa, as well as representatives from two media outlets. On the first day, students visited the old German Fort in Kilwa Kivinje, which was once used to hold slaves. Students also visited slave trading sites, where they asked questions about the slave trade to the tour guide and local residents. The UNIC also conducted interviews with the residents in Kiswahili for United Nations Radio. The following day, students, teachers and the media were welcomed by the Kilwa District Commissioner, Mr. Christopher Ndubiagai, who briefed them on the history of Kilwa. He encouraged the students to study their history, engage in nation building, respect the human rights of others and maintain peace. The UNIC also displayed the exhibit, “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development” which was officially declared open by the Commissioner. The exhibit attracted many students and residents of Kilwa. The UNIC delivered a presentation on slavery and the transatlantic slave trade, and the United Nations Secretary-General’s statement to mark the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade was read aloud in Kiswahili to increase students’ understanding. The students and teachers also visited Kilwa’s largest fort, which is located on Kilwa Kisiwani, a small island about 20 minutes from the shoreline. This was a rich learning experience for the students as they visited UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the houses of the Sultans who ran the slave trade business and the large trading market in Husuni Kubwa. Students were informed that Kilwa Kisiwani was the most famous trading port in East Africa, with traded goods having included ivory, gold, cloth, beads, iron, animal hides, and enslaved Africans, including pregnant women.
Harare, Zimbabwe
On 27 March more than 40 university students and representatives from the Embassies of Angola, Kenya and the United Kingdom attended a commemorative event organised by UNIC Harare at the city’s Meikles Hotel. The event began with a display of the poster exhibit “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development”. Copies of the United Nations Secretary-General’s statement to mark the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, as well as wall calendars featuring The Ark of Return, the Permanent Memorial to Honour the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade at the United Nations, were distributed to all guests upon arrival. During the formal ceremony which followed the exhibition, UNIC Harare provided context and background for the commemoration. There was also a presentation by Hon. David Hamadziripi, Director of Multilateral Affairs at Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The audience later watched the documentary film “They Are We”, which was followed by a stimulating discussion led by the Hon. David Hamadziripi. The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation provided coverage of the entire event and aired it several times on their television station. Following the commemorative event, UNIC Harare was invited to host another screening of the film and display the exhibit at the Catholic University to help educate and raise awareness among other students.
Lagos, Nigeria
Photo: “Remember Slavery” rally in Nigeria. Photo credit: UNIC Lagos
In partnership with the government of Cross River State in southeastern Nigeria, UNIC Lagos organised an educational briefing for students at the West African Peoples Institute (WAPI) in the city of Calabar. The event was attended by more than 200 students from ten high schools. In a presentation to the students, UNIC Lagos explained the significance of the 2017 theme, “Remember Slavery: Recognising the Legacy and Contributions of People of African Descent”.
The Governor of Calabar was represented by the Commissioner of the Ministry of International Development Cooperation, Hon. Francis Ettah. In his remarks, Commissioner Ettah acknowledged that Calabar was an ideal venue to host a “Remember Slavery” event in Nigeria as it was a slave port during the transatlantic slave trade. He also noted that the Calabar Slave Museum had been established in 2007, the same year as the United Nations Remember Slavery Programme. Prior to the briefing, there was a public awareness rally led by UNIC Lagos, Commissioner Ettah and Dr. Gabriel Akpeke, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of International Development Cooperation. The rally promoted “Remember Slavery” messaging. Starting at the Government Secretariat, it ended at the WAPI building. The event also included a screening of the documentary film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess”, a performance by the WAPI school choir, a display of the poster exhibit “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development” and a visit to the Slave History Museum at Marina Resort in Calabar.
Lomé, Togo
Photo: Student briefing in Togo. Photo credit: UNIC Lomé
UNIC Lomé organized several events to commemorate the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. On 30 March, more than 175 students participated in a conference at the University of Lomé. UNIC Lomé explained the history and significance of the commemoration, and presentations about slavery were delivered by the Head of the University’s Department of History and Archeology, as well as a Professor of Contemporary History. After the presentations, students watched and discussed the documentary film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess”. On 31 March, there was a briefing for 319 participants, including students and professors from the Lycée Agoè Center, Lycée Ghégnédzi and Notre Dame des Ap?tres in Lomé. Presenters included a Professor of History at the Collegè Notre Dame de Lomé. Following the presentations, students viewed and discussed the film, “They Are We”. UNIC Lomé also arranged for 120 students to visit two slavery memorials in Agbodrafo, Togo – the House of Slaves (“Wood Home”) and the Well of the Enchained Persons (“Gatovudo”). It is believed that the Well of the Enchained Persons was the last place in Africa that enslaved Africans could be bathed and “purified” before being sent to the Americas. The commemoration activities also included a radio broadcast, and calendars and brochures featuring The Ark of Return, the Permanent Memorial to Honour the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade at the United Nations, were distributed at all activities and shared with other United Nations offices in Lomé.
Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Photo: Students at educational event in Burkina Faso. Photo credit: UNIC Ouagadougou
More than 4,300 visitors viewed the poster exhibit “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development” that was displayed at UNIC Ouagadougou from 24 to 27 March. Visitors included Government officials, diplomats, students, researchers, members of civil society and the media. In partnership with the History Department of the University of Ouagadougou, the UNIC also hosted briefings in ten high schools across Ouagadougou. The presentations focused on the 2017 theme, “Remember Slavery: Recognising the Legacy and Contributions of People of African Descent”. Approximately 2,000 students and teachers participated in these sessions. United Nations information materials on slavery and the transatlantic slave trade ware provided to each participating school. For more information in French about UNIC Ouagadougou’s event, please click .
Pretoria, South Africa
Photo: South African students hold red hands to symbolize the end of slavery. Photo credit: UNIC Pretoria
More than 160 students from Lynnwood Ridge Primary School in Pretoria joined the UNIC for its commemoration. Highlighting the 2017 theme, “Remember Slavery: Recognising the Legacy and Contributions of People of African Descent”, the UNIC representative made a presentation on slavery, its relevance to the Sustainable Development Goals and the need to address issues such as inequalities, racism and xenophobia, which are still evident in South Africa today. The event also included the screening of the documentary film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess”, which helped to teach students about slavery and the need to restore dignity to all victims of slavery.
Students later participated in a poetry exercise, in which they chanted “Slavery is cruel. We must have respect for each other, each other’s humanity and each other’s culture; therefore we can no longer ignore slavery. We are equal. Let us stop slavery. Let is abolish slavery all over the world”. As the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade coincided with South Africa Library Week, it was an opportune time for the UNIC Library to display the poster exhibit “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development”. Based on the feedback, the exhibit had a memorable and positive impact on clients and visitors – especially the young people who gained more insights about slavery and the contributions of people of African descent to the development of societies around the world. Lynnwood Ridge Primary School was also presented with an additional set of posters to help them teach about slavery and the transatlantic slave trade.
Yaoundé, Cameroon
Photo: “Remember Slavery” poster exhibit in Cameroon. Photo credit: UNIC Yaoundé
On 24 March, UNIC Yaoundé held an educational talk for more than 175 students from La Gaieté International School Complex on the theme “Remember Slavery: Recognising the Legacy and Contributions of People of African Descent”. The UNIC briefed on the ways in which enslaved Africans helped to shape and develop the societies in which they found themselves. Stressing how the inhumane treatment of enslaved Africans was a violation of human rights, he encouraged students to denounce any acts of racism, discrimination or violence. Students later watched “Slave Routes: A Global Vision”, a documentary produced by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). They were then quizzed about what they learned and won prizes, including t-shirts and pens, if they supplied the correct responses. They also viewed and were quizzed about the documentary film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess”. All participants received an information kit, which included a copy of the Secretary-General’s message; background on the 2017 theme, the transatlantic slave trade and slavery; a brochure on The Ark of Return; and United Nations Remember Slavery Programme notebooks. Following the films, students were led on a guided tour of the exhibit “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development”. The exhibit was displayed in both English and French.
AMERICAS
Bogotá, Colombia
Photo: Afro-Colombian cultural performance in Colombia. Photo credit: UNIC Bogotá
On 23 March, UNIC Bogotá organised three activities in partnership with the Claretiana University Foundation. The day’s events were all hosted at the Claretiana University in Quibdó, the capital of Colombia’s state of Chocó, which is an important centre of Afro-Colombian history and culture. More than 100 students and teachers attended. The events included a group discussion about the legacy and contributions of people of African descent in Colombia. It was moderated by UNIC Director Helene Papper, and panelists included Claretiana University Vice Chancellor Haminton Reteria and Afro-Colombian historian Sergio Mosquera. There was also a screening of the documentary film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess”. Students later had a chance to visit and ask questions about the poster exhibit “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development” that was displayed throughout the event. The exhibit was later transferred to the Centre for Memory, Peace, and Reconciliation in Bogotá. A Spanish language video about UNIC Bogotá’s commemoration can be found .
Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
Photo: Screening of “Queen Nanny” in Trinidad. Photo credit: UNIC Port of Spain
UNIC Port of Spain collaborated with the National Commission for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to host a screening of the documentary film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess”. It also displayed the poster exhibit “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development”. The event was attended by around 70 students and teachers from St. Joseph’s Convent School and Queens Royal College Secondary School. Students were also briefed on the background and significance of the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade and its 2017 theme. United Nations Remember Slavery Programme notebooks, wall calendars featuring The Ark of Return and brochures on the International Decade for People of African Descent were distributed.
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
Canberra, Australia
Photo: Educational event in Australia. Photo credit: UNIC Canberra
More than 100 people attended a seminar organised by UNIC Canberra, Anti-Slavery Australia and the University of Technology in Sydney. The keynote speaker was Aminata Conteh-Biger, a former sex slave in Sierra Leone who founded a maternal health foundation and showed how the African diaspora had made significant contributions to societies around the world. The event included the opening of the exhibit “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development”, which was displayed at the university library. The UNIC Director provided the audience with background about the exhibit and read aloud the United Nations Secretary-General’s message for the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
New Delhi, India
Photo: Indian students learn about contributions of the African diaspora. Photo credit: UNIC New Delhi
UNIC New Delhi displayed the poster exhibit “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development” at Jawaharlal Nehru University from 25 to 30 March. It was also displayed at the Lalit Kala Akademi in New Delhi from 1 to 7 April. The exhibit provided an opportunity for students to learn more about the work of the United Nations Remember Slavery Programme and the International Decade for People of African Descent.
EUROPE
Brussels, Belgium
Photo: Dutch-language version of “Remember Slavery” poster exhibit in Belgium. Photo credit: UNRIC Brussels
The Brussels based United Nations Regional Information Centre (UNRIC) translated the poster exhibit “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development” into Dutch and distributed both the Dutch and French posters to two Dutch-speaking and three French-speaking schools in Belgium. The schools displayed the exhibit and focused their related lessons on the 2017 theme. The posters will continue to be used throughout the year. The exhibit was also displayed at the University of Ghent from 27 March to 7 April.
Geneva, Switzerland
The United Nations Office at Geneva displayed the poster exhibit “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development” in English and French in the Palais des Nations. There was also a digital display of the English version in the Hall des Pas Perdus. A copy of the United Nations Secretary-General’s message for the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade was distributed to all accredited media at the Palais des Nations.
Yerevan, Armenia
Photo: Armenian students view “Remember Slavery” poster exhibit in Russian and English. Photo credit: UNIC Yerevan
The United Nations Office in Yerevan hosted students from the towns of Noramarg and Sayat-Nova in the Ararat Province. They were briefed on the history, causes, consequences and legacy of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade. Students also watched and discussed “Slave Route: The Soul of Resistance” a documentary by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The discussion focused on issues of racism, discrimination, tolerance, xenophobia, human rights and other United Nations values, and how those themes were relevant to contemporary Armenian society. Students were later divided into two groups to prepare for a debate about the issues discussed. After the debate exercise, the students were encouraged to view the poster exhibit “Remembering Slavery: Recognition, Justice and Development” and received educational materials about the 2017 theme.
2016
Students Visit UNIC Yaounde for an educational event. Photo credit: UNIC Yaounde
The United Nations and its global network of information centres held special events throughout the world to mark the 2016 International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade (25 March) under the theme “Remember Slavery: Celebrating the Heritage and Culture of the African Diaspora and its Roots”.
The theme draws attention to the rich African culture and traditions that have impacted life in countries that were involved in the slave trade and where the African Diaspora continues to make major contribution in all aspects of life. It also highlights the cultural linkages that exist among people of African descent throughout the world. Events at United Nations Information Centres (UNICs) and a United Nations peacekeeping operation to honour the victims of slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade ranged from film screenings and cultural performances to historical exhibits and panel discussions. The United Nations Remember Slavery Programme provided field offices with educational materials.
More than 70 activities were organized in 24 countries to celebrate the heritage and culture of the African Diaspora.
AFRICA
UNIC Accra, Ghana
Photo: Performance in Accra by students from Tema Community 7 Basic School. Photo credit: UNIC Accra
On 12 April, some 300 students from the University of Ghana and the Tema Community ‘7’ Basic School participated in a student forum organized by UNIC Accra, in collaboration with the Central University and Abibimman Foundation, to mark this year’s International Day.
The interactive session included a lecture from archaeology professor James Kwesi Anquandah followed by questions and answers; a reading of the message from the Secretary-General; and a play about slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
A minute of silence was observed with each participant holding a lit candle in remembrance of the victims. A representative of the UNESCO office in Ghana participated. A 5-day exhibit on “Africans in India: From Slaves to Generals and Rulers” was opened with drumming and dancing by the Tema Community ‘7’ Basic School.
There was also a screening of the documentary film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess”, which was attended by students from the University of Ghana.
UNIC Antananarivo, Madagascar
Photo: Students in Antananarivo perform a play depicting the lives of Africans in India. Photo credit: UNIC Antananarivo
On 23 March, UNIC Antananarivo organized a one-day conference focusing on Africans in India, which included the screening of a documentary on people of African descent, a presentation on Africans in India by a history professor and a question and answer session.
There were also performances by students, which included a presentation on why Africans in India were different from slaves in other countries.
The Secretary-General’s message for the International Day was read aloud by a UNIC staff member, who also shared impressions of her recent visit to Senegal’s Gorée Island, the site of a museum and memorial to victims of the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
The “Africans in India: From Slaves to Generals and Rulers” exhibit was displayed both at the UNIC and Estiim University. UNIC Antananarivo also organized a screening of the film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess” on 13 April.
UNIC Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
Photo: UNIC Brazzaville holds outreach event on the African diaspora. Photo credit: UNIC Brazzaville
UNIC Brazzaville held a conference on 22 July on the political and cultural contributions of the African diaspora throughout the world. The screening of the film “They Are We” preceded an academic presentation by a history teacher at Marien Ngouabi University.
Eighty participants, including students and members of the media and civil society, attended the outreach activity, which featured a lively discussion and was organized in connection with the International Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
UNIC Bujumbura, Burundi
Photo: Students at an educational film screening organized by UNIC Bujumbura. Photo credit: UNIC Bujumbura
On 25 March, UNIC Bujumbura organized and hosted a student briefing to commemorate the International Day.
The event featured a lecture based on the Secretary-General’s commemorative message. Students saw and discussed the film “Coeur de Lion”.
The UNIC also hosted a screening of the film “Queen Nanny; Legendary Maroon Chieftainess” and displayed the exhibit “Africans in India: From Slaves to Generals and Rulers” on subsequent dates.
UNIC Dakar, Senegal
UNIC Dakar participated in a special programme on slavery on the popular Senegalese television talk show “Impressions”. During the programme, UNIC Director Damian Cardona-Onses explained the work of the United Nations Remember Slavery Programme and shared information about The Ark of Return, The Permanent Memorial to Honour the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade at the United Nations.
UNIC Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Photo: Briefing students in Tanzania. Photo credit: UNIC Dar es Salaam
UNIC Dar es Salaam observed the International Day on 30 March at the Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy in Dar es Salaam’s Kigamboni area. More than 500 students participated in the event, which featured a screening of “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess”. The students heard a presentation and then engaged in discussions on the film’s themes and how they related to Tanzania. The exhibit “Africans in India: From Slaves to Generals and Rulers ” was translated into Kiswahili and displayed. After touring the exhibit, many students said they could relate to the exhibition and connected the historical information contained in it with the presence of Indians in Tanzania -- especially in the coastal towns in the country's east. The Secretary-General’s statement for the Day was read out by the UNIC’s information officer, flyers were distributed, and media interviews were conducted via print, radio and television. A social media campaign in Kiswahili and English was also encouraged using the following hashtags: #kumbukautumwa and #RememberSlavery. The UNIC also shared a poster advertising The Ark of Return, The Permanent Memorial to Honour the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, with the National Library in Dar es Salaam.
UNIC Harare, Zimbabwe
Photo: Student asks question during a briefing in Harare on the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Photo credit: UNIC Harare
On 11 April, UNIC Harare commemorated the International Day by displaying the exhibit “Africans in India: From Slaves to Generals and Rulers” and screening “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess”. Participants included students from four universities, members of the diplomatic corps and lecturers. During the exhibit opening ceremony, representatives from UNIC Harare provided the audience with background of the International Day.
The keynote address was delivered by Gideon Gapare, Deputy Director of Multilateral and Political Affairs in the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Zimbabwe, on behalf of David Hamadziripi, Director for Multilateral Affairs in the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The documentary film was followed by a discussion moderated by UNIC Harare and involving students and their lecturers.
Copies of the Secretary-General’s commemorative message were distributed in English, Ndebele and Shona. The event was covered by the local media, including the radio stations Star FM and Zi-FM.
UNIC Lagos, Nigeria
Photo: 缅北禁地official shows students the exhibit “Africans in India: From Slaves to Generals and Rulers” in Lagos. Photo credit: UNIC Lagos
Activities marking the International Day were held at Southfield Academy in the Bariga area of Lagos, included a screening of the film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess”; the display of the exhibit “Africans in India: From Slaves to Generals and Rulers”; a briefing and quiz on The Ark of Return, The Permanent Memorial to Honour the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade at the United Nations; and a WebEx online meeting with students in Accra and Nairobi.
UNIC Lomé, Togo
Photo: Students during a briefing organized by UNIC Lomé. Photo credit: UNIC Lomé
UNIC Lomé partnered with the Federation of UNESCO Clubs to organize and host the screening of the film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess” on 6 April as part of this year’s commemorative activities. Prior to the screening, a history professor delivered a presentation about the history of the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Both events were attended by more than 300 secondary school students who are members of UNESCO Clubs in Lomé. Students also visited an exhibit of slavery-related photos and historical documents entitled “Mediathèque Jean-Paul II”.
On 29 April, 160 students from 18 secondary schools visited the Wood Home, also known as the Maison des esclaves (Slave House) in the city of Agbodrafo, which is 35 kilometres outside Lomé. During the two-hour visit, students were briefed on the history of the site and how slaves were treated.
UNIC Lusaka, Zambia
Photo: Students at an event organized by UNIC Lusaka. Photo credit: UNIC Lusaka
On 25 March, UNIC Lusaka joined the UNICs in Accra, Lagos and Nairobi, to host a WebEx online meeting. Participants included university students, college lecturers, media representatives and experts in the field of slavery and human rights.
UNIC Lusaka also organized an outreach activity in the central Zambian town of Kabwe in partnership with Youth Destiny, a local non-governmental organization (NGO). Participants saw two films – “The Batwa People” and “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess” – and then held a discussion and question and answer session.
Students asked how the United Nations was helping to reduce and stop discrimination of Africans around the world and discussed the transfer of African culture and technology to the Americas during the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Other activities included the sending of 2 bulk text messages to 15,000 people countrywide and the distribution of 5,000 pamphlets on slavery and the 2016 theme. There was media coverage by The Post Newspaper, Times of Zambia and a local radio station in Kabwe.
UNIC Nairobi, Kenya
Photo: UNIC Nairobi Deputy Director Newton Kanhema makes remarks during panel discussion. Photo credit: UNIC Nairobi
On 29 March, UNIC Nairobi organized a panel discussion to observe the International Day. More than 300 students from 16 local universities engaged for more than two hours in discussions on the role of Africans in the Transatlantic Slave Trade and the impact of the Transatlantic Slave Trade on African societies today.
Among the panellists was an African-American professor who had visited West Africa and discovered that her ancestors had come from Cameroon. The audience responded with a rousing “Welcome home!”
UNIC Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Photo: Visitors view “Africans in India: From Slaves to Generals and Rulers” in Burkina Faso. Photo credit: UNIC Ouagadougou
In partnership with the University of Ouagadougou, UNIC Ouagadougou hosted lectures on slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade in 10 high schools on 25, 28 and 29 March. Some 3,500 students and teachers participated in these lectures.
The UNIC displayed the exhibit “Africans in India: From Slaves to Generals and Rulers” from 25 to 31 March. Approximately 3,800 people visited the exhibit, including Government officials, students, diplomats, researchers, members of civil society and media representatives.
On 25 March, the UNIC screened “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess”. Before the screening, which took place in a packed auditorium, the Secretary-General’s message for the International Day was read aloud.
UNIC Pretoria, South Africa
Photo: Students and teachers from Founders Community School in South Africa. Photo credit: UNIC Pretoria
UNIC Pretoria organized and hosted an event on March 17. More than 70 members of the public and schoolchildren, including from the Katlehong area east of Johannesburg, participated. The event was marked by poems, music and key messages about how slavery impacted the African way of life. A student from Founders Community School recited a poem about African heritage and the ills of slavery.
The documentary “The Middle Passage” by renowned Hollywood director Steven Spielberg, which is based on the history of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, was screened. Musical group “惭辞蝉补颈肠” entertained guests with African-inspired tunes.
Acting UNIC Director Maureen Nkandu said, “This is a history we dare not forget, for it still has a bearing on how the African or the black person is perceived and treated today”. Zolani Mkiva of the African Delphic Council gave the keynote address.
UNIC Yaounde, Cameroon
Photo: Group photo with UNIC Yaounde staff and guests at a Transatlantic Slave Trade observance event. Photo credit: UNIC Yaounde
UNIC Yaounde organized an educational outreach event to commemorate the International Day at the Lycée de la Cité Verte (Government High School) in Yaounde on 7 April. The event was designed to increase students’ awareness of the rich African culture and traditions that have impacted life in the countries that were involved in the Transatlantic Slave Trade. The film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess” was screened and followed by a panel discussion.
Panellists included representatives of the UNIC and UNESCO. Copies of the Secretary-General’s commemorative message, background information on the 2016 theme and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, and a brochure on The Ark of Return, The Permanent Memorial to Honour the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade at the United Nations, were distributed to participants and the media.
AMERICAS
UNIC Asunción, Paraguay
Photo: Workshop on Afro-Paraguayan culture and the legacy of slavery. Photo credit: UNIC Asunción
On 15 December, UNIC Asunción – in cooperation with the Cabildo Cultural Centre Network – held a workshop on African rhythms and cultural heritage that was attended by more than 40 participants, including educators, students and artists.
Speakers, including from the Paraguayan Network of Afro-Descendants and the Catholic University, lectured on the history of Black communities in Paraguay, and the UNIC explained the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade.
The Kambakua Ballet taught participants how to dance to African rhythms and play African drums. The UNIC distributed educational materials on the transatlantic slave trade and African cultural heritage, and the event was covered by the .
UNIC Mexico City, Mexico
Photo: UNIC Mexico City
On 17 October, UNIC Mexico -- in cooperation with the Jamaican Embassy in Mexico and the Mexican Foreign Ministry -- screened the film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess" at the Cineteca Nacional in Mexico City.
The screening was part of a larger event that focused on Jamaican national heroes. UNIC Director Giancarlo Summa attended on behalf of the United Nations.
A second screening was held on 10 November at the National Institute of Anthropology and History.
MINUSTAH, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
Photo: Screening of 'Queen Nanny' in Haiti. Photo: MINUSTAH
The United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) organized a screening of the documentary “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess” for nearly 100 young detainees at Haiti’s Centre for the Rehabilitation of Minors in Conflict with the Law (CERMICOL) on 29 August 2016 in Port-au-Prince.
Following the screening, MINUSTAH’s Communication and Public Information Office facilitated discussions among the attendees, who were between the ages of 11 and 17. The conversation focused on the need for peoples around the world to be familiar with their roots and ancestors.
The young people expressed admiration for the key role played by Queen Nanny in the fight against slavery and against one of the world’s biggest armies at that time. According to one participant, “The actions of Queen Nanny can be summed up in one word: leadership… She used her leadership to drive her people to freedom”.
UNIC Panama City, Panama
Photo: 缅北禁地Resident Coordinator in Panama Martín Santiago Herrero marks the International Day with performers. Photo credit: UNIC Panama
On 8 April, 缅北禁地Resident Coordinator in Panama Martín Santiago Herrero hosted an event for students from the University of Panama’s Faculty of Law and Political Science, Government officials, the diplomatic corps, the media and representatives of international and Afro-Panamanian organizations. The film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess” was screened.
The Resident Coordinator read out the Secretary-General’s message for the International Day and an award to Professor Gerardo Maloney Francis for his work on Afro-Panamanian culture and his efforts to promote equality and social justice for Panamanians of African descent. The exhibit “Africans in India: From Slaves to Generals and Rulers” was also displayed.
Performers from “La Reina Congo” used music and dance to tell stories about the Transatlantic Slave Trade. The UNIC also ensured that the Secretary-General’s message was in the Panamanian press.
UNIC Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
Photo: Poster exhibit at Scarborough Library, Tobago, 13-27 May 2016. Photo credit: Tobago Library Services
On 16 April, UNIC Port of Spain, together with the Trinidad and Tobago National Commission for UNESCO, co-hosted a screening of “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess” during an event targeted at young adults. The UNIC also mounted the “Africans in India: From Slaves to General and Rulers” poster exhibit, hosted an information table and disseminated Remember Slavery promotional materials (posters, postcards, bookmarks and Ark of Return brochures) to attendees.
UNIC Port of Spain also coordinated the hosting of the “Africans in India” exhibit by the Scarborough Library in Tobago and production of Remember Slavery promotional material for dissemination to exhibit visitors and other library users there. The exhibit lasted from 2 to 27 May. The UNIC also hosted 15 students who participated in the 8th Annual United Nations 'Remember Slavery' Global Student Videoconference, which brought together students from Dakar, New York and Port of Spain to discuss the theme "Celebrating the Heritage and Culture of the African Diaspora and its Roots" on 13 May.
UNIC Port of Spain arranged for the students’ participation in the international event in partnership with the Trinidad and Tobago National Commission for UNESCO). ‘Remember Slavery’ printed material was also distributed to some 30 schools in Trinidad and Tobago through the UNESCO Associated Schools Project Network (ASP-Net).
UNIC Washington, DC, United States
On 10 June, UNIC Washington co-presented a screening of the film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess” with and at the AFI Silver Theatre in Silver Spring, Maryland, as part of the DC Caribbean Film Festival. UNIC Director Robb Skinner delivered welcoming remarks.
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
UNIC Canberra, Australia
Photo: UNIC Canberra Director Christopher Woodthorpe (centre) with representatives of the University of Technology Sydney at a screening of “Queen Nanny”. Photo credit: UNIC Canberra
To mark the International Day, UNIC Canberra partnered with the Faculty of Law at the University of Technology Sydney to organize a screening of the film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess”.
During her opening remarks, Jennifer Burn, Director of Anti-Slavery Australia, explained that, while the film related to a time and place quite distant to current day Australia, the film’s lessons were still relevant today.
In his remarks, UNIC Canberra Director Christopher Woodthorpe pointed out that justice for women, and especially women of colour, and recognition for their accomplishments, is still not being served. He stated, that “such recognition and justice was central to the theme of the International Decade for People of African Descent (2015-2024), which seeks to strengthen international cooperation in relation to the full enjoyment of economic, social, cultural, civil and political rights by people of African descent.”
Both remarks underscored the message of the Secretary-General, which was shared with participants.
UNIC New Delhi, India
Photo: At the request of the 缅北禁地"Remember Slavery" Programme, UNIC New Delhi organized the showing of a gem of an exhibition entitled AFRICANS IN INDIA. Photo credit: UNIC New Delhi
There was great interest in New Delhi in the exhibit “Africans in India: From Slaves to Rulers and Generals”. To mark the International Day, UNIC New Delhi partnered with the South Asian University (SAU) and the Department of African Studies at Delhi University to host this exhibition for 10 days in the lobby at SAU, located in Delhi's diplomatic enclave, Chanakyapuri.
At the exhibit opening on 21 March, SAU President Kavita Sharma praised the intense research that had yielded such a stunning display of photographs and facts about the history of Africans in India. In addition to the students, there were over 30 scholars from the University in attendance. The exhibit also attracted great media attention with several positive articles about the exhibit being published throughout New Delhi.
The exhibition was also displayed at 缅北禁地House in Lodi Estate as well as the India Africa Day Gala 2016 organized by the Association of Spouses of African Heads of Missions (ASAHOM) in India.
EUROPE
缅北禁地Office (UNO) Tbilisi, Georgia
Photo: Students from Batumi State University at a screening of “Queen Nanny”. Photo: UNO Tbilisi
UNO Tbilisi organized a screening and discussion of the film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess” on 2 April for students from Batumi State University. On 8 April, students from Tbilisi State University, Ilia State University, Tbilisi Technical University, the Caucasian International School and the Georgian Institute of Public Affairs, attended a one-day conference on the theme: “Celebrating the Heritage and Culture of the African Diaspora and its Roots.” This event was held at Tbilisi State University to promote greater knowledge of and respect for the diverse heritage, culture and contributions of people of African descent to the development of societies.
The conference was facilitated by Flora Pachulia, founder of the NGO World Without War and member of the organization Cooperation for Peace and Progress. The poster exhibit “Africans in India: From Slaves to Generals and Rulers” was also opened in the lobby of Tbilisi State University. The conference was followed by a screening of the film “Queen Nanny: Legendary Maroon Chieftainess” at the Parliamentary Library of Georgia. These events were organized by the European Law Students’ Association-Georgia with support from the UNO Tbilisi.
缅北禁地Office (UNO) Yerevan, Armenia
UNO Yerevan organized an educational outreach event at the 缅北禁地House on 29 March dedicated to the International Day. Around 50 high school students from the cities of Gyumri and Vagharshapat attended with their teachers. Students saw the UNESCO film “Slave Route: Soul of Resistance”. The film’s beginning was subtitled in Armenian, and a summary of the film’s remainder was distributed as a handout. A lively discussion followed the screening. UNO Yerevan also delivered a presentation about slavery, the Transatlantic Slave Trade and slave routes in the Indian Ocean.