Press Statement: International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade - March 25, 2026
One of the most horrific crimes in human history was the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade which began in 1526 when Enslaved Africans were transported to the Americas and sold off to slave masters. The cruelty of this human atrocity continued for almost four hundred years. During this period millions of lives were lost due to the brutal nature of their trans-shipment and heinous plantation life under cruel circumstances.
In 2007 the United Nations General Assembly via Resolution 62/122 declared 25 March as International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. This global observance is an occasion used to educate and enlighten people about the severe injustices of slavery and white supremacy and the resultant prejudices and intolerance that continues in our society today.
The global theme for 2026 Justice in Action: Confronting History, Advancing Dignity, Empowering Futures is an appeal for justice, equality, fair societies, and the call to eradicate racial and discriminatory practices. We much recognize that the continuation of such prejudices are dangerous, and that education and awareness campaigns are key to changing mindsets.
The Guyana Public Service Union GPSU) in remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, rejects the residue of this historical crime and travesty that befell our ancestors. The Union issues an urgent call to address racial hate and discriminatory practices in our social and professional environments, such as in the world of work, in politics, in social welfare programs, economic distribution and healthcare access. These are all results of past human injustices and must be up-rooted and eradicated, since individual biases impact systems that should ensure the fundamental rights and freedoms of all.
In 2026 let us, together, forcefully resound the call for repair, equality and justice; let us unite for human rights, for advancing dignity, expanding opportunities and participation for all while confronting history and empowering our futures.
March 25, 2026.