I hope this letter finds you well. I write to you from the 21st century not to condemn, but to open your eyes to something, I believe you may not have fully considered my friend. You are a kind and thoughtful person, and I know you strive to live a good and just life. However, I need to share something that may challenge your beliefs about slavery.
The idea that one person can own another, simply because of their skin color or their birthplace, goes against the very essence of humanity. Every person, regardless of their circumstances, is born with an inherent dignity. To deny someone their freedom is to deny them their humanity, their dreams, and their right to live as an equal member of society.
I understand that slavery has been practiced for generations and that it may seem like an unchangeable part of life. But let me ask you this: if someone were to enslave your friend Lute, or your big brother, how would it feel? Would it not strike you as the deepest injustice? The truth is, the people you see as property are no different from you in their capacity to feel, to think, and to love.
Consider, too, the evidence all around us: enslaved individuals demonstrate intelligence, resilience, and creativity, despite the horrific conditions they endure. If they were truly “lesser” beings, would they show such remarkable qualities? Look into their eyes, and you will see the same humanity you see in yourself.
As pointed out in something I have been reading, equality is a moral idea, not an assertion of facts. There is no logically compelling reason to assume that a factual difference in ability between two people justifies any difference in the amount of consideration we give to their needs and interests. If it were, then the most intelligent among you would claim the right to dominate and exploit you, a notion that is both absurd and deep flawed.
I urge you to reflect on whether it is fair to build a life of comfort on the suffering of others. History will not look kindly upon those who turn a blind eye to injustice. But you, my friend, have the power to make a different choice. You can be the one to stand for what is right, even when it is difficult.
I believe in your capacity for compassion and change. Let us create a world where every person can live with dignity and freedom.
Letter to Slave trader Kassim of the 16th century
Dear Kassim,
I hope this letter finds you well. I write to you from the 21st century not to condemn, but to open your eyes to something, I believe you may not have fully considered my friend. You are a kind and thoughtful person, and I know you strive to live a good and just life. However, I need to share something that may challenge your beliefs about slavery.
The idea that one person can own another, simply because of their skin color or their birthplace, goes against the very essence of humanity. Every person, regardless of their circumstances, is born with an inherent dignity. To deny someone their freedom is to deny them their humanity, their dreams, and their right to live as an equal member of society.
I understand that slavery has been practiced for generations and that it may seem like an unchangeable part of life. But let me ask you this: if someone were to enslave your friend Lute, or your big brother, how would it feel? Would it not strike you as the deepest injustice? The truth is, the people you see as property are no different from you in their capacity to feel, to think, and to love.
Consider, too, the evidence all around us: enslaved individuals demonstrate intelligence, resilience, and creativity, despite the horrific conditions they endure. If they were truly “lesser” beings, would they show such remarkable qualities? Look into their eyes, and you will see the same humanity you see in yourself.
As pointed out in something I have been reading, equality is a moral idea, not an assertion of facts. There is no logically compelling reason to assume that a factual difference in ability between two people justifies any difference in the amount of consideration we give to their needs and interests. If it were, then the most intelligent among you would claim the right to dominate and exploit you, a notion that is both absurd and deep flawed.
I urge you to reflect on whether it is fair to build a life of comfort on the suffering of others. History will not look kindly upon those who turn a blind eye to injustice. But you, my friend, have the power to make a different choice. You can be the one to stand for what is right, even when it is difficult.
I believe in your capacity for compassion and change. Let us create a world where every person can live with dignity and freedom.
Yours sincerely
Lutebemberwa Isa