Lunch time Discussion/Debate: Slavery was abolished - but does it still exist??
Details
This week's 'suggested' prompt question (please read Rules below):
Intro:
In reading Jamaica Kincaid's book, A Small Place, she expresses how Black people (from Antigua, where she is form) feel hurt and indignation to the continued treatment by white people rich people and tourists. Antigua was colonized by England and had (and still has) a very strong connection to the British Monarchy which it gives high deference. Kincaid argues the deference to the Queen/England is unwarranted for all the (bad) they have done to Black Antiguans. While white 'masters' left the Island a while ago, leaving it after having used it for their advantages and benefits, the same type of master-servant exists in many ways still. Frantz Fanon, a political philosopher and a doctor of psychiatry, famously argued that the settler-slave dynamic is one that lasts beyond colonization. Colonizers often referred to black slaves as "sly-boots, a lazybones and a thief" (Fanon, The Wretched of the Earth); yet, used (and abused) the black slave's services for their own needs and betterment. In fact, Kinkaid is really saying the same thing. She argues that Black people are (still) the servants of white people - even though slavery has been abolished by many countries. White people have done nothing as far as reparation to help Antiguans either. They come as tourists and investors and are treated like royalty while the Antiguan government lets the rest of Antigua (that is not a hotel or a club) delapatate: the only library is run down and the only hospital for Antiguans only has one or two doctors for the people.
Do you think forms of slavery still exist? Where?
Here is a link to the Book on Google:
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Introduction:
I’m looking for others to engage in friendly ONLINE discussion and debate once a week on scholarly and other topics on a wide series of subjects. I enjoy discussing anything from politics to theories - Indigenous affairs, race/gender theory, feminism, decolonization ideas and ideas about New Social movements. I’m interested in discussing the discourse and intersections of current topics as well. No held bars, but subject to the below rules.
Ali
Rules:
This is a friendly discussion and debate on various issues - it's likely to be passionate for individuals holding different views. However, the first rule is that there is no attacking (or being rude) to the other person allowed. Deal with the argument, not attack the person making it. Having said that, mis-information, untruths, and racist and extremist nationalistic ideologies will not be allowed to the extent that it insults the participants. I understand there is a fine line between free speech (discussion) and moderating this, but, this is a private discussion group and I think most will understand this is an important mitigating tool to avoid harmful rhetoric.
Secondly, we do not discuss our personal backgrounds, education or other things - all we will know is our first names. This will allow the perception of the discussion and debate being on a level-playing-field - we are all, in any event, different and we can all learn from one another.
Thirdly, topic selection will be decided either by me (the moderator) or the group that day in a majority vote.
Finally, NO RECORDING allowed in any way. Note that you should absolutely NOT record our sessions in any way! This is a private group chatting (off the record) and I am sure others (including myself) will not want to be recorded. Also, people's opinions and passed on knowledge may be danger of being plagiarized if broadcasted/published via any type of media
There is no requirement for cameras to be on.
I look forward to meeting with you all.
Ali