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News • August 21st, 2026
|This Sunday, 23 August 2026, Hull will commemorate Slavery Remembrance Day with several important events, led by the Lord Mayor, Councillor Maria Coward. The day is dedicated to remembering the victims of the transatlantic slave trade and reflecting on its ongoing impact. The events will take place at Wilberforce House, a museum dedicated to the legacy of William Wilberforce, who was instrumental in the fight against slavery.
Significance of Slavery Remembrance Day
Slavery Remembrance Day is held annually on 23 August as part of a UNESCO initiative. This day encourages people to remember the history of slavery and discuss its consequences, which still resonate today. The date was chosen to honour the anniversary of the 1791 uprising in Saint-Domingue (now Haiti), which was a significant event in the fight against slavery.
The Lord Mayor will participate in a special commemoration at Mandela Gardens, located next to Wilberforce House. This gathering aims to unite the community in remembering the past and educating one another about the historic causes and ongoing issues surrounding slavery.
Community Involvement and Education
During the commemoration, attendees will have the opportunity to engage in discussions about the legacies of slavery and the importance of education in preventing such injustices from happening again.
Councillor Coward highlighted the importance of this day for Hull:
“It is so important that we mark this day in our city, particularly because of our own William Wilberforce and his campaigning against the slave trade.”
Wilberforce, a local hero, dedicated his life to abolishing the slave trade in the British Empire. His efforts led to the passage of the Slavery Abolition Act in 1833, which was a monumental step toward ending slavery in the UK. The events on Sunday will serve not only as a reminder of the past but also as a call to action against modern-day slavery, which unfortunately still exists in various forms around the world.
Modern-Day Relevance
In her remarks, Councillor Coward also pointed out the relevance of Slavery Remembrance Day in today’s context. “It also reminds us that exploitation still exists through modern-day slavery, and that many people worldwide are still victims.” This statement underscores the ongoing need for awareness and advocacy against human trafficking and exploitation, which affects millions globally.
Visiting Wilberforce House
Wilberforce House is a key location for those interested in learning more about the history of slavery and the abolition movement. The museum offers guided tours that provide insight into the life of William Wilberforce and the broader context of the abolitionist movement. Visitors can explore the exhibitions that highlight the moral and political battles fought to end slavery.
