Five mixed-race women from the former Belgian Congo are demanding justice from the Belgian state for crimes against humanity that occurred during the colonial era. Léa, Marie-José, Noëlle, Monique, and Simone, who were taken from their Congolese mothers during the colonial Belgian rule, are now in their seventies and have filed a lawsuit against Belgium.
The women, born to Congolese mothers and European fathers, are among thousands of children who were forcibly separated from their families during this dark period in history. Their heartbreaking story sheds light on the long-lasting effects of colonization and the trauma experienced by those who were torn apart from their loved ones.
FRANCE 24’s Alix Le Bourdon and Dave Keating have reported on the plight of these women, highlighting their quest for justice and closure. As they seek accountability for the injustices they suffered, their courage and resilience serve as a powerful reminder of the need to address the painful legacy of colonialism.
This story underscores the importance of recognizing and acknowledging the historical wrongs committed during the colonial era, and the ongoing struggle for justice and reparations by those who continue to be affected. The fight for justice by these five women is a potent symbol of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
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Video “FRANCE 24 report: Mixed-race women from the former Belgian Congo demand justice • FRANCE 24” was uploaded on 09/09/2024 to Youtube Channel FRANCE 24 English