Church Of England Urged To Give $1.27 Billion To Pay For Slavery Ties

The Church of England has been advised to increase its reparations for its slavery-related past to $1.27 billion, a tenfold rise from the initially pledged $127 million.

Acknowledging investments in the slave trade during the 18th century, the Church initially committed to aiding communities impacted by slavery over nine years. However, experts believe this is inadequate for true reparative justice.

Gareth Mostyn of the Church Commissioners announced the aim to grow the fund, encouraging partnerships to create a significant, enduring impact. The Church Commissioners plan to expedite the funding within five years and support various projects benefiting black communities and professionals.

The church also aims to set a precedent for other UK institutions with similar histories to address their own legacies. Bishop Rosemarie Mallett expressed the intent for positive action to inspire broader accountability.

Britain, including the Church of England, continues to confront its colonial legacy, including profiting from slavery, an act previously confessed as shameful by the church.