French Parliament Repeals Slavery-Era Black Code in Unanimous Vote
French Parliament votes to repeal slavery-era Black Code that classified humans as property

Image: New York Post
The French National Assembly voted unanimously to repeal the Code Noir, a law that classified enslaved people as property, which had remained on the books for nearly two centuries. Lawmakers emphasized the need to confront France's colonial past and its ongoing implications for systemic racism in the country.
- 01The National Assembly voted 254-0 to repeal the Code Noir, which was signed in 1685 by King Louis XIV.
- 02The law treated enslaved individuals as 'movable property,' allowing for their exploitation and abuse.
- 03President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged the historical silence surrounding the Code Noir as an offense to the descendants of enslaved people.
- 04Despite the repeal, systemic racism and economic disparities persist in France's overseas territories, which remain among the poorest regions.
- 05Calls for reparations and a deeper reckoning with France's colonial history continue, with Macron suggesting the need for truth-telling and education.
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On Thursday, the French National Assembly voted unanimously to repeal the Code Noir, a colonial-era law that classified enslaved individuals as property. This significant decision comes nearly two centuries after slavery was abolished in France. The Code Noir, enacted in 1685 by King Louis XIV, allowed for the brutal treatment of enslaved people, including violence and exploitation. Lawmakers, including Steevy Gustave, who is descended from enslaved individuals, highlighted the emotional weight of the repeal, stating that it cannot repair centuries of suffering. President Emmanuel Macron remarked that the long-standing silence regarding the Code Noir was an offense to the descendants of enslaved people. While the repeal is a symbolic step, many argue that it reflects the ongoing challenges of systemic racism and economic inequality faced by France's overseas territories, which are still among the poorest regions. The discussion around reparations remains contentious, with Macron suggesting the need for truth-telling and historical education rather than immediate financial compensation. This vote marks a crucial moment in France's journey to confront its colonial past.
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The repeal of the Code Noir is expected to have symbolic significance in addressing France's colonial legacy and systemic racism.
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