The Black Holocaust–April 1st–is a Day of Remembrance AND a Call to Action.
Every year, we are reminded of the struggle and resilience of Afrodescendants, who have faced centuries of hardship. Though there are notable ‘firsts’ in history, we must never forget the painful past that continues to affect us today. One such event is the arrival of the first Africans to the Western world in 1555.
April 1st marks the beginning of the transatlantic slave trade. April 1st serves as a powerful reminder of the brutality and dehumanization faced by our ancestors. The history of the Black Holocaust, or the Middle Passage, is one that calls for remembrance and action.
The Black Holocaust: A Tragic Legacy
The transatlantic slave trade resulted in the forced displacement and enslavement of millions of Africans. From the first captured in 1555 to those who endured the horrors of the Middle Passage, a legacy of suffering marked these events. White en-slavers chained, starved, and separated our ancestors from their families.
This history is often overlooked, yet it is crucial that we remember the millions who suffered. The Black Holocaust is a continuing story of struggle and resistance. That’s why each year, we come together to reflect and honor the memory of those who endured unimaginable hardships.
Why We Must Remember
The Black Holocaust is an essential part of our shared history. By remembering it, we reject the cultural conditioning that has sought to erase our stories.
Afrodescendants must continue to educate ourselves and our children about this dark chapter in history so that we never forget the strength and resilience of our ancestors. We must also recognize the importance of activism—both in commemorating the past and in fighting for a better future.
Activism Tools for Remembering and Honoring
Black Holocaust Remembrance Day
- Each year, we set aside time to remember the suffering and sacrifice of our ancestors during the transatlantic slave trade. April 1 marks a significant day, but the entire month of April is a time to reflect on the journey of our forebears.
While the scale of this tragedy is impossible to fully comprehend, we can honor the memory of those lost by coming together and learning from their experiences.
- Join Us in Honoring the Black Holocaust
As we reflect on the legacy of our ancestors, we invite you to participate in this year’s Black Holocaust Remembrance Day event. The event flyer can be found below, where you’ll discover details about the commemoration and ways to get involved. Each year, this day serves as a reminder to remember the suffering of our forebears and honor their resilience. Let’s come together to keep their memory alive.
2025 Flyer forthcoming
A Call for Black Activism
We cannot wait for others to honor our history for us. It is up to us to continue the work of our ancestors through activism and self-determination.
Leaders like the Honorable Silis Muhammad have called for unity and self-reliance, urging us to build communities that support and uplift one another. His book, In My Next Life, serves as a guide for those seeking to make a difference and honor the legacy of Afrodescendants.
The British monarchy sanctioned the ship Jesus of Lubeck to capture people from Africa. The first Africans arrived in the ‘new world’ in 1555.
Call to Action for Black Parents
As we remember the Black Holocaust, it is essential that we teach the next generation about their history. Black parents, you can play a crucial role in ensuring that your children understand their roots and the struggles their ancestors endured. Start by introducing them to age-appropriate materials that teach about the Middle Passage, the Black Holocaust, and the resilience of Afrodescendants. </p>
By educating our children, we ensure that the memory of our ancestors is passed down for generations to come. Together, we can honor their legacy and continue the fight for justice and equality.
Need an engaging way to spark conversations about our Black history with your child? Get a free, downloadable coloring page about the Black Holocaust.