Once slavery was abolished across the British colonies back in 1833, slave-owners were compensated as restitution. The British government borrowed the equivalent of billions in today’s currency adjusted for inflation, a debt only settled as recently as 2015. At the same time, the victims of slavery themselves received nothing.
Rising Momentum
Campaigners have for years called for reparations, but only recently their demands has gained significant traction. The issue is deeply tied to ethnicity and immigration, themes now at the forefront of global politics. Hence the latest book on the subject highly relevant and important.
More Than Money
Many people believe reparations requires an enormous payment, however the book stresses from the start that the process is not solely monetary. Primarily, the focus is on acknowledging the profound evil that was slavery, as well as grasping its lasting impact in the modern world.
The authors explore different types restitution might assume, for example:
- returning what was lost
- monetary amends
- supporting recovery
- state remorse
Additionally, mention creating a special commission to manage reparations for affected communities. Although the book doesn’t dictate the form, they convincingly assert that amends must be made.
Linking History to Today
For one, they demonstrates that discrimination in the present day originates in the financial and mental aftermath of the slave trade. Such as:
- underperformance in schools
- higher rates of involvement in prisons
- higher instances of mental health issues
On the other hand, they point out that money earned from the slave trade fuels certain institutions now, playing a role in the nation’s role within international banking.
Examples and Options
While people accept the ethical case for making amends, many question if it’s practical or achievable. To counter this, Henry and Ryder reference precedents including the 1952 Reparations Agreement, through which significant funds were transferred as part of a long-term plan. They also explore how reparations could be financed, such as:
- a tax on financial transactions
- debt cancellation
“Reparations must be changing who holds authority,” the book states. “Cash is often representative of control, but giving money alone doesn’t fully address the harm. Transferring authority is the real restoration intended.”
A Polarized Climate
Today, conversations around race and migration has become increasingly toxic. Under the guise of opposing political correctness, vocal politicians are attempting to reverse gains made since civil rights. In both Western countries, talk surrounding asylum and migration has become ever more heated, with far-right narratives becoming more mainstream.
An Essential Discussion
There has never been more urgency for reasoned discussion on race. The Big Payback expertly links historical injustice and current inequity, rendering it an important contribution to the debate.
