What’s next after scrapping the ‘Black Code’ in France?
French MPs have voted to repeal the 'Black Code,' a law that governed slavery in French colonies for 400 years. This decision has raised questions about whether it provides adequate reparatory justice for the descendants of slavery victims. The unanimous vote marks a significant step in addressing historical injustices in France.
- ▪The 'Black Code' outlined rules that allowed slave owners to treat laborers as property.
- ▪The law permitted cruel punishments, including beatings and hangings.
- ▪The repeal was voted unanimously by French MPs.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
play videoplay videoVideo Duration 28 minutes 00 seconds play-arrow28:00Inside StoryWhat’s next after scrapping the ‘Black Code’ in France?French MPs vote to repeal law that governed slavery in colonies.Read moreThe “Code Noir” (or Black Code) is a law many were shocked to discover still existed in France.It dates back 400 years and outlines the rules that governed slavery in French Caribbean colonies – rules that allowed slave owners to treat their labourers as property that could be bought, sold and inherited; rules that permitted cruel punishment such as beatings – often to death – and hangings.Recommended Stories list of 3 itemslist 1 of 3How badly is Europe affected by fertiliser shortages due to the Iran war?list 2 of 3French prosecutors to probe Israeli treatment of flotilla…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Al Jazeera English.