The Atlantic Slave Memorial is a collaboration between GCM and Green-Up Gambia, led by environmental justice advocate and GCM alumnus Kemo Fatty. The aim of the project is to plant 12.5 million trees across the African continent as a living memorial to the millions of people taken through the transatlantic slave trade, starting with 1 million trees in The Gambia. While the initiative is African-led, the project's outreach is supported by Don Mullan through Hope Initiatives International.
Centuries after the transatlantic slave trade, African communities face intertwined burdens: racial injustice, historical trauma, and environmental degradation. Regions once departure points for enslaved Africans are now on the frontlines of climate change, suffering from deforestation, soil erosion, and biodiversity loss. These impacts deepen social and economic inequalities, especially for communities tied to the land.
The Atlantic Slave Memorial Initiative will create a continent-wide, community-rooted memorial by planting trees that stand for lives taken and futures reclaimed. In collaboration with local communities, youth, and traditional leaders. The project will start by planting 1 million trees in The Gambia and donations will support tree nurseries, seedlings, tools as well as education and storytelling activities that connect the history of the slave trade with environmental stewardship today.
Planting 12.5 million trees will restore degraded African landscapes, improving soil, biodiversity, and carbon storage, thus strengthening climate resilience. Crucially, the initiative builds a living memorial, keeping the memory of enslaved Africans present. Centering youth leadership nurtures eco-conscious leaders who connect racial and environmental justice. This work will support sustainable livelihoods, foster cultural pride, and inspire further restoration efforts far beyond The Gambia.
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