Caribbean Tour: Charles to Discuss Slavery Legacy at Antigua Summit

King Charles is visiting the Caribbean to address the history of transatlantic slavery before a major regional summit.

The nine day tour began in the Bahamas on Tuesday, where the monarch attended a youth rally at Clifford Park. This site is where the country formally gained independence from British colonial rule in 1973. Charles stated that the brightest aspects of Bahamian culture were born out of darkness. He said it is right to acknowledge past suffering while celebrating current successes.

Leaders from Commonwealth nations will meet in Antigua and Barbuda next week for the Chogm conference. Charles confirmed that the legacy of slavery will be a central topic of discussion during this gathering. The tour also includes a solo state visit to Guyana, where President Mohamed Irfaan Ali recently urged the king to offer an apology.

Local groups have responded to the king's remarks with mixed feelings. The Bahamas National Reparations Committee said the comments fall short of what justice requires. Dr. Niambi Hall Campbell-Dean, the committee's chair, described the words as hollow platitudes. She argued that Bahamian culture stems from agency and the will to survive, not just darkness. The group called for a full and formal apology from the crown.

Prof. Hilary Beckles, who chairs the Caribbean Community Reparations Commission, said the region seeks proprietary justice. He told the Guardian that the king should dig deep within his consciousness when speaking to young Caribbean people. Beckles emphasized that the process must begin with remorse.

British government officials have not yet advised the king to offer an official apology or reparations, following established policy. Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband will join Charles in Antigua for the leaders' meeting. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson noted that the itinerary focuses on modern partnerships and future opportunities. The spokesperson described the trip as a continuation of a lifelong effort to engage with the past.

The king has previously addressed the topic at high level events. In 2021, he called slavery an appalling atrocity that forever stains history. In 2022, he said he was continuing to deepen his understanding of the issue's enduring impact. Charles departs for Guyana on Thursday to continue the tour.