In his remarks, Roberts argues that meaningful change requires more than laws on paper. It demands economic empowerment, grassroots gender sensitivity, and real political will. He reflects on the enduring impact of colonial legacies and patriarchal systems that have limited women’s access to education, leadership, and opportunity, while framing gender justice as not only a political issue, but also a moral and theological imperative.
Roberts also shares a personal family example that shaped his perspective: his Aunt Eleanor broke a gender barrier in 1943 when she became the first woman of color hired as a designer at the Newport Naval Torpedo Base, a rare and pioneering role for that era. He invokes her legacy as a reminder that empowered women have long transformed society, often against the odds.
His United Nations experience also extended beyond the podium. While attending the Commission, he visited an exhibition on the Atlantic Slave Trade in the lobby of the UN Commission Center and connected with a delegation from Kazakhstan, underscoring the global reach of these conversations and the value of cross-cultural dialogue.
This speech highlights the importance of women’s rights, faith, history, and international exchange in building a more just and inclusive future.
Below is a full transcript of the speech:
Your Excellencies,
Gender inequality remains a major hurdle to Africa’s progress. Achieving sustainable development takes more than just laws on paper. It’s about economic empowerment, grassroots gender sensitivity, and real political will. As people of faith, we’re called to challenge unjust systems and affirm everyone’s dignity, regardless of gender.
Colonial legacies and patriarchal norms have long held women back from education and leadership. Advancing women’s rights isn’t just about integrity —it’s vital for Africa’s growth. At its best, African traditional religion sees gender as complementary, not hierarchical. Women have always been key in agriculture, trade, and spiritual leadership— so today, when religion excludes women, it reinforces outdated norms.
This is not just a political issue; it’s a moral and theological imperative. If all people are reflecting God’s image, any system that oppresses by gender opposes that divine will.
Many African nations are making progress—enacting gender quotas, expanding girls’ education, and protecting reproductive rights. Faith communities can lead the charge. Through gospel music concerts and shared worship, we can reshape how we see each other and drive social change. My Aunt Eleanor, broke gender barriers in 1943, proving that empowered women transform society. Thank you.
Charles L. Roberts is Executive Director and Founder of Rhode Island Slave History Medallions, www.rishm.org. He can be reached at charles@rishm.org.
Rhode Island Slave History Medallions invites the community to a special Juneteenth Semiquincentennial Living History Celebration at Fort Adams State Park in Newport.
Held on the parade grounds inside the fort, this family-friendly event will commemorate Juneteenth while also honoring the anniversary of the Revolutionary War and the history of the Battle of Rhode Island.
We invite all visitors to learn more about RISHM’s events and accomplishments in 2025 and support our Annual Campaign, from Giving Tuesday (Dec. 2, 2025) through 401 Gives Day (April 1, 2026).
RISHM relies on the generous support of private donations to continue the underrepresented but important work of marking the landscape of where slave history happened in Rhode Island.
