Malik Al Nasir’s experience delving into the history of a slave trading family for his doctorate goes beyond academia. The poet and author, of mixed heritage, discovered that his ancestors were among both the enslaved people and the slave traders of the Sandbach Tinne dynasty, who monopolized the Demerara sugar trade in the 19th century. This legacy is still evident in British cities such as Liverpool, Manchester, and Bristol, where the family’s influence has left a lasting impact.
The author’s PhD research at the University of Cambridge uncovered missing parts of his history linked to his father’s birthplace in Demerara, in today’s Guyana, and his journey has involved building an extensive archive and gaining support from various institutions.
This personal connection to the history of slavery became especially significant against the backdrop of the Black Lives Matter protests following the killing of George Floyd in the United States. It was during this time that a statue of slave trader Edward Colston was toppled and thrown into Bristol Harbour, sparking a national conversation about reparations.
Malik Al Nasir, inspired by his research, aims to establish a centre for colonial research and create a multi-institutional network to further study and exhibit material related to his ancestors. He believes that work like his can enable descendants to explore their own histories and tell their stories from their perspectives.
There has been growing momentum for reparations, with calls for significant policy changes, including in education and school curriculums. The movement has brought together various campaigners and voices, but there are tensions as it becomes more mainstream. Some are concerned that its radical roots and ambitions may be diluted, and that governments, rather than communities, may become recipients of financial aid.
Despite these challenges, there are signs of progress. Descendants of those involved in the transatlantic chattel slavery, like film director John Dower, have been engaging in discussions around reparations and acknowledging their ancestors’ roles. They believe that a critical mass of people, including those of African heritage, coming together can help enact change and move towards a more just and liberated world.