**Europe Owes Us: Caribbean Leaders Demand Reparations NOW!**
In a historic and urgent call to action, Caribbean leaders have intensified their demands for reparations from Europe, declaring that justice for the descendants of enslaved people is not just overdue—it’s non-negotiable. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM), representing 20 nations, has unveiled a revitalized 10-point plan that goes beyond financial compensation, seeking formal apologies, public investments, and the cancellation of crippling debts from colonial powers like the UK, France, and the Netherlands.
This pivotal moment comes as global awareness of reparations grows, with leaders emphasizing that this is a moral and legal obligation—not a handout. Sir Hillary Beckles, chair of the CARICOM Reparations Commission, has made it clear: “Reparations are a matter of moral and legal obligation.” His impassioned speeches at international forums, including the UN and the Commonwealth Summit, underscore the urgency of this demand.
Meanwhile, in the United States, movements advocating for reparations are gaining momentum, with groups like the Foundation of Black Americans focusing on lineage-based claims. Lawmakers are pushing for HR 40, a proposed commission to study and propose reparations for African Americans, highlighting a vital national reckoning.
As the 160th anniversary of the Morant Bay Rebellion approaches, leaders like Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness declare boldly, “We are not begging; we are demanding justice for crimes against humanity.” This is not merely a Caribbean issue; it is a global reckoning where African leaders and activists worldwide are rallying behind the cause.
The message is clear: the descendants of the enslaved are demanding restitution on their terms, and the fight for reparations is far from over. The time for action is now—will Europe answer their call?