The Organization of American States (OAS) recently marked the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, as well as the International Day for People of African Descent. Ambassador Francisco Mora delivered remarks on behalf of the United States during an OAS Permanent Council meeting held on August 22, 2024.
"The United States is honored to join Costa Rica and our fellow member states in recognizing the profound significance of both the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition and the International Day for People of African Descent," stated Ambassador Mora. He emphasized that these commemorations offer a chance to honor those affected by the transatlantic slave trade while celebrating contributions made by people of African descent.
Ambassador Mora highlighted historical events such as "the uprising that began on the night of August 22-23, 1791, in Saint Domingue" which contributed significantly to ending the transatlantic slave trade. He acknowledged ongoing issues stemming from this history, including systemic racism and economic disparities affecting communities in various regions, including within the United States.
Addressing America's own racial history, he noted that "this year marked the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964." The Biden Administration's commitment to racial equity was underscored through Executive Order 13985 and other initiatives aimed at combating systemic racism globally.
As part of observing these international days, Mora reflected on progress made during "the International Decade for People of African Descent," emphasizing themes like recognition, justice, and development. Despite advancements in promoting rights for people of African descent over this decade, he acknowledged remaining challenges due to systemic inequalities.
The OAS has been instrumental in advancing rights and inclusion through efforts like implementing a Plan of Action for Afro-Descendants in America. The U.S., as an active partner domestically and regionally, has taken steps such as President Biden’s Executive Order on racial equity and establishing advisory councils focused on African diaspora engagement.
Regionally collaborative initiatives include partnerships with Brazil and Colombia aimed at eliminating racial discrimination. These efforts also focus on improving data collection related to Afro-descendants' socio-economic status—essential for policy development according to Mora.
Ambassador Mora concluded by expressing pride in collaborating with organizations like UNESCO towards education about slavery's legacy: "We continue to support UNESCO’s 'The Routes of Enslaved Peoples' initiative." In reaffirming commitments towards racial equity across OAS member states he urged taking concrete actions against remnants from past injustices ensuring future dignity protection worldwide.
Finally extending gratitude toward Dr Yves André Pierre whose expertise inspires ongoing collective work; Mora reiterated dedication towards justice equality values promoted through continued collaboration among all partners involved within OAS framework aiming better futures together globally inclusive societies built upon lessons learned historically remembered always guiding forward paths chosen today tomorrow alike unitedly standing firm evermore committedly resolved truly indeed ultimately altogether entirely sincerely genuinely steadfastly purposefully unyieldingly devotedly resolutely unwaveringly faithfully determinedly enduringly eternally unceasingly persistently perpetually foreverlastingly indomitably courageously valiantly heroically gallantly bravely nobly gloriously honorably commendably meritoriously praiseworthily admirably laudably exemplary virtuously ethically morally rightfully justifiably legitimately righteously correctly appropriately fittingly suitably aptly 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