In Jamaica – Prince William Expresses ‘Profound Sorrow’ over Slavery & Exploitation During Colonial Rule

  • Prince William has expressed deep regret for slavery in Jamica, saying it had forever stained history of Britain
  • Prince William acknowledged Bob Marley in his address
  • Slavery was abhorrent and it should never have happened.

Prince William is in Jamaica on an official visit. Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, has expressed deep regret for slavery, saying it had forever stained history of Britain and used the word ‘profound sorrow’ in his speech.  Prince William said slavery was immoral and should never have happened while speaking at the State Dinner at King’s House to end day two of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s visit.

There have been voices in Jamaica against the British to apologies for slavery and compensate countries such as Jamaica. In Jamaica, there are approximately 55,000 British citizens, but in the United Kingdom, there are approximately 8,00,000 persons of Jamaican heritage. In recent years, the relationship between the two countries has deteriorated when some Caribbean residents who had long lived in the United Kingdom legitimately were denied jobs, housing, or medical care, with some being deported because they lacked the necessary documents. Britain has since apologized and promised to compensate the victims. Despite history of slavery, Jamaica continues to construct its future with tenacity, resilience, and fortitude, despite the sorrow of the past.

During his remarks, Prince William expressed gratitude to the Governor-General and acknowledged Bob Marley. He cited Raheem Sterling and Leon Bailey as two of the top footballers in the world during his address. Elaine and Shelly-Ann were also referred to be the world’s quickest ladies in his address.

Prince William acknowledged that Jamaica has undergone significant change over the years and praised the country for upholding democratic principles and working with the international community to support peace, security, and international law, including the Jamaican Prime Minister’s strong condemnation of the invasion of Ukraine.

Friday 25th March is the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. Prince William’s speech was candid and recognised the significance of 25th March.  He said that he strongly agrees with his father, The Prince of Wales, who visited Barbados last year and said that the appalling atrocity of slavery forever stains Britain’s history. Prince William expressed his profound sorrow and said that Slavery was abhorrent and it should never have happened.

In his address, Prince William recognised the strength, invincible spirit and shared sense of purpose of the Jamaican people. Prince William recognised the contribution of Jamaican people in building the United Kingdom after the Second World War.

Bureau Galactik Views

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