Ghana Accuses U.S. of Normalizing Erasure of Black History

Ghana’s intervention at the United Nations positions the debate over historical memory and reparations within a broader geopolitical contest, linking domestic U.S. policy shifts to global narratives on race, history and accountability.

Speaking at the UN in New York, President John Dramani Mahama said U.S. policy changes risk setting precedents beyond its borders.

“These policies are becoming a template for other governments,” he said, warning they are “slowly normalizing the erasure.”

His remarks referenced actions under U.S. President Donald Trump targeting museums, monuments and school curricula.

Mahama argued that Black history courses are being removed and institutions are being directed away from teaching “the truth of slavery, segregation and racism.”

He framed the issue as both domestic and global, noting that policy shifts in the United States could influence governance approaches elsewhere.

The White House rejected the criticism, stating Trump had delivered “historic support” from Black voters in the 2024 election and was “working around the clock” for the community.

The remarks coincided with Ghana’s push for a United Nations General Assembly resolution recognizing the transatlantic slave trade as the “gravest crime in the history of humankind.” The draft calls for formal apologies, financial compensation, artifact restitution and guarantees of non-repetition.

The initiative, scheduled for presentation on Wednesday, is backed by the African Union and Caribbean Community, as well as countries such as Brazil.

In February, African Union leaders declared slavery and colonialism “crimes against humanity,” reinforcing the bloc’s policy alignment.

Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Ablakwa said both the United States and the European Union had indicated they would not support the resolution. Western governments have resisted reparations discussions, arguing present-day states should not be held accountable for historical actions.

The push reflects a broader shift in multilateral diplomacy, with African and Caribbean states seeking formal recognition mechanisms despite opposition from key Western actors.

Mahama’s comments also referenced prior disputes, including criticism of U.S. claims about “white genocide” in South Africa.