New York, March 26 (GRANMA/RHC).—The United Nations marked on Friday International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, honoring the memory of millions of Africans forcibly removed from their families and homelands.

In a message on the date, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon said this international day of remembrance also shines a spotlight on prevailing racism and prejudice today.

It is imperative, he said, that we work together for equal opportunity, justice and sustainable development for people of African descent.  The theme of this year’s observance is “Remember Slavery: Celebrating the Heritage and Culture of the African Diaspora

Tested to the limits of their spirit and endurance, slaves from Africa left their descendants a wide range of invaluable assets, including fortitude, courage, patience and compassion.  

On this Day, let us renew our resolve to fight racism and celebrate the heritage of Africa that enhances societies around the world today, stated the UN Secretary General.

For over 400 years, more than 15 million men, women and children were the victims of the tragic transatlantic slave trade, one of the darkest chapters in human history.