Slaver's statue torn down

As protests against racist police brutality sweep across the globe, rallying cries of ‘Black Lives Matter’ echo through our streets and our digital avenues. These echoes were particularly significant today in Bristol with the pulling down of Edward Colston’s statue, a prominent 17th century slaveholder. The bronze memorial to Colston had existed in the city centre since 1895, but now lies at the bottom of the harbour having been pulled down by rope. This was something that was applauded and celebrated by protestors.

Colston was a prominent member of the Royal African Company. In the time span of his involvement, the Royal African Company was responsible for shipping 80,000 slaves, including 12,000 children under the age of 10. Underneath his statues it reads: ‘erected by the citizens of Bristol, as a memorial to one of the most virtuous and wise sons of this city'. But, Colston is only a part of Bristol’s historical connection to slavery. Indeed, Bristol University itself was founded on the slave trade. The 1909 University Fund contributed over 89% of Bristol University’s original funding. Even today Bristol’s Wills halls of residence is named after H. Wills, a trader in slave produced tobacco.

EDITORIAL OPINION

It is truly shocking to consider that the slave trade was the foundation of much of Bristol’s wealth. Some may claim the tearing down of Colston’s statue erases this history, that past figures should not be treated with modern standards. However, there is a profound logic in its destruction. The statue venerated and exalted the slave trade. It was less a part of history and more a continued insult to modern equality. Times change, perceptions change. If we are to continue to pay homage to slavery, then we are to undermine the 187 years of progress since its abolition. Instead, the removal of Colston’s statue marks an important evolution. Today marks an important milestone in this city’s complicated history.

Written by Sam Bradby

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