The Editor, Sir:

The issue of reparation for Black people in the diaspora is long overdue and must be addressed. Four hundred years ago Black people were kidnapped from their homeland and scattered all over the Western hemisphere.

Upon our arrival in the New World we were systematically stripped of culture, concepts, intellect, and even our names. Thus our history is unlike any other group in these new lands, in that they were allowed to mainstream themselves in the fledgling new nations.

It was illegal for us to read, write, own property or even show we have an intellect. Therefore, all that we have become, all that we have achieved, is in direct opposition to the intentions of our oppressors and captors.

Apologies, like that of Tony Blair are OK, but do not clear the debt. Reparation is a debt owed. A debt remains a debt until it is paid in full.

I am, etc.,

COLLIN TOMLINSON

P.O. Box 4744

Atlanta, GA.