Responding after the end of Black History Month, which ran from 1st October 2022 to 31st October 2022, Foysol Choudhury MSP said: “October may have now come to a close but important action to raise awareness of the devastating effects of colonialism and slavery must continue.
“This Black History Month, I joined my constituents in attending events and participating in sessions which raised awareness of black history and the unfortunate legacy of slavery and colonialism within Scotland.
“When attending the session on Data-Led Recommendations to Progress Racial Equality in Scotland, I learnt that there are shocking statistics on the relationship between immigration status and minoritised communities in Scotland.
“Now is the time to have these difficult conversations and generate meaningful action which hopefully leads to equality and prosperity for all.
“I also got involved with promoting an important fundraiser by the Mandela Scottish Memorial, who are raising funds for a statue of Nelson Mandela in Scotland.
“The statute will be a focus for education and information and also as a reminder of Mandela’s lessons on anti-racism and social justice.
“It is important that after Black History month we continue to engage in self-education and recognition of Scotland’s ties to racism, colonialism and slavery.
“I welcome Robert Aldridge (above), the Lord Provost of Edinburgh, apologising on behalf of the city of Edinburgh for its past role in sustaining colonialism and slavery.
“This is an important step forward and similar work needs to continue to tackle the legacy of colonialism and slavery across Scotland.
“I welcome the creation of an independent Legacy Commission and will be monitoring this with great interest.”
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