In the Bible’s Book of Exodus, a powerful verse declares that the sins of the fathers shall be visited upon the children for generations to come. But is this notion of ancestral responsibility really fair? Should we be held accountable for the crimes committed by our predecessors? These questions lie at the heart of Antoinette Sandbach’s protest regarding her connection to Samuel Sandbach, a 19th-century mayor of Liverpool who profited from the enslavement of African people.
Antoinette Sandbach, a former Tory MP, is considering legal action against Cambridge University in response to historian Malik Al Nasir’s research on British enslavement in Guyana. Sandbach, who condemns her ancestors’ actions and supports Al Nasir’s work, argues that her right to privacy is being violated by being publicly named as a descendant of Samuel Sandbach. She believes that she should not be held accountable for acts in which she had no involvement.
Sandbach’s case is indicative of a wider problem in Britain, where the nation grapples with its colonial past. The country struggles to confront the uncomfortable aspects of its history, including the enslavement of millions of Africans and the exploitation of Asian and African nations. Even if these histories are acknowledged, there is no consensus on how to address their ongoing consequences, perpetuating the cycle of denial.
This legacy of denial stems from an ingrained national myth that portrays Britain as a benevolent empire that led the world in abolishing slavery. However, this myth conveniently obscures the realities of industrialized murder and exploitation that affected millions of African people. While individuals like Antoinette Sandbach may not have committed these crimes, they bear the responsibility of acknowledging their ancestors’ actions and participating in the collective denial of history.
Many descendants of enslaved individuals, including myself, recognize the importance of not shying away from this shared history. By acknowledging our connection to the past, we can confront the national trauma and address the structural racism and inequalities that persist in our society today.
It is unfair to solely single out families like the Sandbachs due to their visibility as descendants of affluent ancestors involved in the slave trade. All of 19th-century Britain benefited from the wealth generated by enslavement, which fueled the country’s growth. Privilege and power, though less tangible, also pass down through generations, as demonstrated by the Sandbachs’ continued influence in politics.
As a co-founder of the Heirs of Slavery group, I have encountered many individuals who feel a sense of shame regarding their family’s history but are hesitant to confront it fully. Some are uncomfortable with the right wing’s rejection of discussions on reparative justice, while others engage in defensive whataboutery. It is essential to understand that selecting only the positive aspects of our family or national story while erasing uncomfortable truths is not only dishonest but also harmful to those affected by slavery. Healing can only begin with acknowledgment.
Charles Gladstone, another descendant of a family involved in the slave trade, recently visited Guyana and publicly acknowledged his ancestor’s actions. He recognized the continuing impact of slavery on people’s lives and expressed a commitment to creating a better future. His example serves as a reminder that while the past cannot be changed, we can work towards a more just and equitable future.
In conclusion, the challenges posed by our colonial history demand that we confront uncomfortable truths and acknowledge our shared responsibility. By embracing our collective history, we can begin the healing process and strive for a more inclusive and equitable society.
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