In our final episode, we confront the global legacy of slavery and chart a path toward true reconciliation. Writer, lawyer, diplomat and Pan-Africanist thinker Ambassador David Comissiong explores the profound global significance of the Caribbean reparations movement, framing the struggle as a restoration of Africa's central role in human history and a cultural and historical restoration. He roots reparations in international law, stating that the goal is to "wipe out the consequences of the illegal act and restore the situation that would have existed if the crime had never been committed." The complete lecture on which this series is based, hosted by the National Library Service, is available on the NLS Facebook page.

READING GUIDE:

• Testing the Chains: Resistance to Slavery in the British West Indies by Michael Craton (1982) - A comprehensive study of slave resistance and rebellion from the 17th century through the 1830s.

• How Europe Underdeveloped Africa by Walter Rodney (1972) - Argues that African underdevelopment is a direct result of systematic exploitation by European powers, with the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade as the primary engine.

• Slavery Reparations: Time Is Now: Exposing Lies, Claiming Justice for Global Survival - An International Legal Assessment by Dr. Nora Wittmann (2013) - A seminal work providing a historical and legal assessment of claims related to transatlantic slavery, challenging the notion of no legal basis for reparations.

• It's the Healing of the Nation: The Case For Reparations In An Era of Recession and Re-colonisation by Ambassador David Comissiong (2013, 2022) - A concise historical and legal case for reparations, arguing it is necessary for Caribbean integration, economic revival, and the upliftment of people of African descent.

A powerful five-part series with historian and raconteur Professor Henry Fraser, exploring how the iconic corner shop was the essential bank, social centre, and lifeline of Barbadian community life—and what its disappearance means for the island’s social capital.

We get into about tuk band rhythm, the unmistakable Barbadian heartbeat behind festivals, parades, and village celebrations. Music with roots in Africa, remixed on plantations...

Available from February 11

Step into the heart of Barbadian folklore and masquerade. The story of the Shaggy Bear isn’t about applause—it’s about transformation. Born from the traditions of enslaved people, this iconic character stalks the streets in swirling layers, carrying the echoes of generations. Meet the people behind the masks, including acrobat Stupa Flip and creator Michael “Chatty” Taitt, and trace the Shaggy Bear's African roots. Produced by Shayla Murrell of our partner BGIS Radio.
 

We transform historical pain into a blueprint for justice by exploring the CARICOM reparations strategy—a comprehensive approach that goes far beyond monetary compensation. Ambassador David Comissiong reveals a 10-point plan calling for an apology, support for repatriation, development programs in education, health, and technology transfer, and debt cancellation. He also discusses the multi-generational payment strategy, suggesting reparations can be structured like the slave owners' compensation, paid out over generations.

The story of the Shaggy Bear isn’t about applause; it’s about transformation. Born from the traditions of enslaved people, the Shaggy Bear stalks the streets in swirling layers...

Available from February 4

We dive deeper into the Landship. This part uncovers how this island tradition, the oldest indigenous organisation in Barbados, doubles as an engine of financial support, savings, and shared identity. Through story, rhythm, and memory, the Landship reveals how a vibrant dance can also be a profound lesson in survival and belonging.

Produced by Shayla Murrell of our partner BGIS Radio.

Unpacking the complex legal and historical foundations of the Caribbean reparations movement. Ambassador David Comissiong challenges the fundamental narrative that slavery was ever "legal," exposing the profound legal contradictions of colonial legislation. He argues that slavery was illegal under both the national law of England and international law, detailing how the constant resistance of enslaved Africans ultimately led to abolition. Dr Nora Wittman's research is highlighted to distinguish African social structures of servitude from the dehumanising chattel slavery imposed by European colonisers.

Part two of "On the Call of the Captain”, about a uniquely Barbadian institution: a history, a ritual, a performance, but most of all, a community.

Available from January 28

The Barbados Landship is more than just a spectacle—it was a crucial support network for Barbadian communities. Part one explores the history, ritual, and performance of this uniquely Barbadian institution. From roll calls and dues to offering real support for illness and funerals, discover the legacy of captains, commodores, and admirals who shaped the Landship’s path through modern change. Produced by Shayla Murrell of our partner BGIS Radio.