All human beings are born free and equal?
Past and Present forms of Slavery

The Southwark Justice and Peace Commission held its Autumn Assembly at the Amigo Hall on Saturday, 21st October. The meeting explored the impact of the Transatlantic Slave Trade and its legacies and looked at some of the forms of slavery that exist today.

Father Michael Scanlon, Chairman of the Commission, welcomed the delegates to the Assembly, which was being held nearly 200 years since the Abolition of the Transatlantic Slave Trade in 1807.

But in a series of talks, the speakers described how slavery in its many forms still blights the lives of many.

Richard Reddie, Project Director of set all free, set the scene.

Richard Reddie speaks to the Assembly

John Pontifex, Head of Press and Information of Aid to the Church in Need, spoke of the plight of Christians in Pakistan and their struggle for freedom.

Archbishop Kevin with John Pontifex, holding a book he has recently edited

Instances of present day slavery were given by Emily Goulborn and Clare Gorcznska, from Save the Children, who spoke about child labour and by Rosslyn Okumu, from Chaste, who spoke about the trafficking of women.

Young people from the Southwark Catholic Youth Service, who were there with their chaplain, Father Geoff Munnery, also gave a presentation.

Much discussion and sharing took place during the day with ideas for action and involvement being put forward at the final session.

The response to the closing prayers: Lord, set us free.

Father Michael Scanlon, Chairman, and Sister Pat Trussell, Coordinator, with Richard Reddie

Archbishop Kevin speaks with Canon James Cronin and Father Michael Scanlon. On the right, Lloyd Booker, President of the South London Caribbean Association

A time for listening ...

... and a time for discussion

Bishop Paul in discussion

Father Geoff Munnery, Chaplain of the Southwark Catholic Youth Service, with the young people who gave the presentation.

Explore the issues raised at the Assembly by visiting the  websites of the speakers' organisations.
Please click on the appropriate logo:

Aid to the Church in Need

Southwark Justice and Peace Office
Contacts:
Father Michael Scanlon (Commission Chairman)
Sister Pat Trussell (Coordinatior)
J & P Office
Cathedral House
Westminster Bridge Road
London
SE1 7HY
Telephone: 020 7928 9742
Email: office@southwarkjandp.co.uk
Website: www.southwarkjandp.co.uk