Church of England Pledges £100M, Uncovers Slave Trade Ties
The Church of England has taken significant steps towards addressing its historic ties to the slave trade. At a United Nations event focused on reparatory justice, the Archbishop of York, the Most Rev. Stephen Cottrell, announced a £100 million commitment and an investigation revealing sobering findings.
The Church has established the 'Independent Reparation Oversight Group' to govern funds allocated towards a long-term impact investment, a grant program, and a research initiative. The investigation uncovered investments in the South Sea Company and profits derived from the slave trade. The archbishop described discovering 'horrifying things' such as unanswered letters and a 'slave Bible' with missing liberation themes, reflecting a normalization of evil within the institution. He invited other institutions to follow suit, stating the Church's hope to 'be liberated from its failings and build a better world collaboratively with others.' Attendees will gather in prayer at the Ark of the Return memorial on April 16, reaffirming the Church of England's commitment to remembrance, repentance, and reconciliation.
The Church of England acknowledges that apology alone is insufficient and is engaged in a long-term journey of 'penitence, partnership, and purpose' regarding its connection to African chattel enslavement and reparations. The £100 million commitment and the findings of the investigation mark significant progress in this journey.
