Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama addressed a UN event in New York on Tuesday, expressing concerns that President Donald Trump is “gradually normalizing the erasure” of Black history in the U.S. He urged other nations to consider similar actions.
During his visit, Mr. Mahama presented a resolution advocating for the recognition of the transatlantic slave trade as “the most serious crime in human history,” along with calls for modern nations to provide reparations.
In his speech, he criticized President Trump for diminishing Black history through cuts to funding for cultural exhibits, particularly those deemed “anti-American.” He further alleged that Trump’s policies are leading to the exclusion of slavery and racism from educational curricula and the banning of related books.
“These policies are setting a precedent for both private institutions and other governments. They’re gradually normalizing erasure,” he commented.
In reaction, the White House stated that Trump enjoys “historic support” from Black voters as he prepares for the 2024 election, emphasizing his commitment to serving this demographic and improving the country.
On Wednesday, the UN General Assembly passed Mahama’s resolution with a vote of 123-3, while 52 countries abstained. Argentina, Israel, and the United States opposed the resolution, and most European nations that were expected to address the costs of “reparatory justice” chose to abstain.
“We want reparations. To be clear, African leaders are not seeking money for ourselves. Our focus is on justice for the victims, support for their causes, and funds for education and skill training,” stated Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa. The BBC had reported prior to the UN vote.
“Many generations still experience exclusion and racism due to the transatlantic slave trade, which displaced millions and impoverished them,” he remarked, addressing the critique that the reparations movement seeks to transfer wealth from individuals who never owned slaves to individuals who were never enslaved.
Besides financial reparation, Mr. Mahama also called for the return of African art and artifacts from Western museums. Mr. Ablakwa relayed these demands to the BBC.
“We are seeking the return of all looted artifacts that embody our heritage, culture, and spiritual significance. All items taken over centuries since colonial times must be returned,” he asserted.
