JISTNA
International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition
Remember so we never forget. Benin honors the memory of the victims of the slave trade and celebrates the progress made toward freedom.
What is JISTNA?
It was on the night of August 22–23, 1791, in Saint-Domingue, now Haiti, that the uprising began that would play a decisive role in the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. It is in this context that the International Day for the Remembrance of the Transatlantic Slave Trade and its Abolition is observed on August 23 each year.
For Benin, formerly the land of the Kingdom of Dahomey and the starting point of the "Route of Enslaved People" in Ouidah, this day holds special resonance: paying tribute to the victims, passing on the memory to younger generations, and strengthening ties with the Afro-descendant diaspora.
“Memory is not just a moral imperative; it is a political and cultural seed.”
Practical Information
All the essential information you need to plan your visit and make the most of this commemorative day.
The Date
The Venue
Starting point on the Slave Route.
Access
Admission is open to everyone, in keeping with the spirit of this commemoration.
Transportation
Each participant is responsible for arranging their own transportation to Ouidah (about 1 hour from Cotonou).
Recommended Attire
Choose white and ochre tones, as a tribute to peace and the earth as a source of remembrance.
Additional Information
- Be sure to bring water and sun protection (hat, sunscreen): the ceremonies take place outdoors all day long.
- Wear comfortable shoes: the morning memorial walk covers about 2 km to the Door of No Return.
- A moment of respectful reflection is requested when crossing the Door of No Return.
Gallery
Relive the highlights from recent editions of JISTNA.
Contact Us
Do you have a question about the event? Feel free to contact us.
contact@jistna.bj
Address
Ouidah, Benin