Congressman Jerrold Nadler (NY-08), Chair of the Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and Civil Liberties today issued the following statement on the legacy of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, an issue that is the subject of an oversight hearing:

“As America strives to become a ‘more perfect union,’ we must never forget the stains that mark our past.

“My own City of New York was a major port city and operated as a hub for the slave trade.  African slaves played a key role in the building of the city, and they directly contributed to New York’s prosperity.  Earlier this year we dedicated the African Burial Ground National Monument and gave those who are buried there the proper recognition and respect they deserve. 

“This hearing looks not just to the past, but to the legacy of our own history of slavery as it continues to affect race relations and inequality in present day America.  It is our duty to ask the difficult questions, and to face up to our responsibilities to remedy the ongoing injustice of slavery that remains a part of our society. 

“As America continues to address the impact of slavery, we need to ensure the promise of equality becomes a reality.”