"We object to the fact that in the Virgin Islands, our people cannot make fundamental decisions because they have to consult with the British governor and consult with Downing Street to make decisions … and we want to have it uprooted as part of the enlightenment that we’re calling for – democracy, freedom, sovereignty for everyone."
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The Intersection of Decolonization and Reparations
Comissiong expressed that it is inconceivable for Black people to remain without self-determination after overcoming the historical oppression and wealth extraction of slavery and colonialism.
He noted that at least 20 British, French, Dutch, and American colonies still exist in the Caribbean, stating that reparations and decolonization are directly linked.
The discussion comes ahead of the Commonwealth heads of government meeting in Antigua and Barbuda, where King Charles is scheduled to be the keynote speaker.
Comissiong acknowledged the constitutional constraints of the British monarch but noted that Caribbean nations expect the king to advance conversations regarding sovereignty and reparatory justice.
"I would not dare to advise the king how he should address his subjects, (but) the time has come to let the people go, to begin the decolonisation process … to break the chains of imperial governance.
And to say, to those subjects: 'We accept responsibility, for 300 years of wealth extraction, human degradation, and future moral order.'"
New Strategies in the Global Movement
The global reparations movement has recently expanded through stronger cooperation between Caribbean and African nations, alongside planned collaborations with African Americans.
According to Beckles, the movement is transitioning into a negotiation stage following multiple apologies from global institutions and a United Nations vote recognizing slavery as a grave crime against humanity.
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During their UK visit, the Caribbean delegation also met with senior clerics of the Church of England, urging them to proceed with their Project Spire reparations program despite theological criticisms.
