Table of Contents
- Reparations Claim by Sir Lenny Henry
- The Big Payback
- Arguments for Reparations
- Historical Context
- Poll Invitation
SIR Lenny Henry has asserted that every black Briton should receive reparations for slavery.
The 67-year-old co-authored a book titled The Big Payback, which advocates for the distribution of £18 trillion in compensation.
Lenny Henry has asserted that every black Briton should receive reparations for slavery
He argued that substantial amounts should be allocated to Caribbean nations and also provided to black British citizens on an individual basis.
In the book, Sir Lenny stated, “all black British people… deserve reparations for slavery.”
He added, “We rightfully deserve compensation for the impacts of slavery.”
The authors contend that slavery directly resulted in racism and argue that all black individuals experience the repercussions of racism, warranting compensation for all.
They further state, “The existence of racism today and the disproportionate representation of black British individuals in the prison population are all consequences of the transatlantic slave trade.”
Jamaica, Antigua, Nevis, Barbados, and St Kitts are all Caribbean nations that were under British rule, linking Britain to the Western Hemisphere and the Americas.
These nations played a critical role in the triangular slave trade routes between Western Africa, America, and Britain.
Britain prohibited the slave trade within its empire in 1807, but it did not formally abolish the institution of slavery until 1834.
Most of Britain’s 2.4 million black population is of direct African descent, indicating that they are not descendants of Caribbean slaves.
So, what do you think—should compensation be granted? Share your opinion in our exclusive poll.
Enjoy debating? Join us for bold discussions on the issues shaping Britain.
What are reparations for slavery?
Reparations for slavery refer to compensation provided to the descendants of enslaved individuals as acknowledgment of the injustices and economic disadvantages caused by slavery.
Why does Sir Lenny Henry advocate for reparations?
Sir Lenny Henry advocates for reparations as he believes that the impact of slavery and systemic racism continues to affect black individuals today, and compensation is a way to address these historical injustices.
