International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition

What Is the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition?

August 23rd is the "International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition." Proclaimed by UNESCO, it was first observed in Haiti on August 23, 1998, and on Gorée Island in Senegal on August 23, 1999, and is now commemorated in many countries.

The Uprising in Saint-Domingue Marked a Turning Point for Freedom

This international day exists to preserve the memory of the tragedy of the transatlantic slave trade and to pass on to future generations the story of the struggle for its abolition.

• Origin: The date commemorates the uprising that began on the night of August 22-23, 1791, in the French colony of Saint-Domingue (present-day Haiti), which became known as the Haitian Revolution.
• Established: Proclaimed by resolution of the UNESCO General Conference and first observed in Haiti on August 23, 1998.
• Significance: The uprising is regarded as a pivotal turning point that set in motion the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade.
• Observance: As part of UNESCO's "Slave Route" project, member states hold lectures, exhibitions, and other events to convey the history of the slave trade.

A Part of Human History We Must Not Forget

The transatlantic slave trade forcibly transported millions of people from Africa to the Americas over several centuries. The uprising in Saint-Domingue later led to Haitian independence and had a profound impact on the broader movement to abolish slavery.

Ways to Mark the Day

• Learn about the history of the transatlantic slave trade and its abolition
• Read about the Haitian Revolution and the Saint-Domingue uprising
• Reflect on modern-day issues of human trafficking and forced labor
• Explore related materials and exhibitions published by UNESCO

Knowing History Shapes the Future

The International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition is a day to remember past tragedy and honor those who fought for freedom and dignity. On August 23rd, take a moment to reflect on the weight of history and the lessons it holds.