The Editor, Sir:

Congratulations to Member of Parliament Mike Henry for taking such a bold, necessary stand on the issue of reparation for slavery, as published in the Gleaner online on February 14.

Members on both sides of the Jamaican parliament must do their research while searching their hearts for answers to the question, "what is justice?"

It seems very just and fair that nations that perpetrated slavery and benefited from its atrocities now repent, apologise and pay reparation.

Still No apology

Former United States President Bill Clinton once toured Africa and stood at the point of no return and showed sorrow. but made no formal apology and did not insist that the United States Congress offer such an apology.

British prime minister Tony Blair also recently expressed sorrow without issuing a formal apology for slavery.

The time is long past for that matter to be addressed meaning-fully and Mike Henry's recommendations seem just, fair and sensible.

The guilty nations must first apologise then pay reparation and it is the duty of progressive parliaments like Jamaica's to lead the way in demanding such making of amends.

In the end, justice and fairness will win and the mental slavery that Victor Cummings mentioned will be alleviated.

The guilty nations themselves will also benefit from cleared consciences and the entire human race would greatly benefit from improved race relations and reconciliation.

Therefore, I join MP Henry in saying, "reparation, yes!"

I am, etc.,

REV. MERVIN STODDART

INMerv@hotmail.com

P.O. Box 150953

Altamonte Springs, Florida

Via Go-Jamaica