Ciara is among the first descendants of enslaved people granted citizenship by Benin

U.S. singer Ciara is one of the first public figures to become a citizen of Benin under a recent law by the small West African country granting citizenship to descendants of enslaved people.

The Grammy-winning performer’s acquisition of citizenship at a ceremony Saturday in the city of Cotonou is part of a broader initiative by Benin to attract the Black diaspora, acknowledge the country’s role in the transatlantic slave trade, and promote tourism focused on slavery-related sites of remembrance.

“By legally recognizing these children of Africa, Benin is healing a historical wound. It is an act of justice, but also one of belonging and hope,” Justice Minister Yvon Détchénou said at the ceremony.

Here’s what to know about Benin’s efforts to welcome descendants of enslaved people:

Benin’s Afro-descendant citizenship law

In September, Benin passed a law granting citizenship to those who can trace their lineage to the slave trade.

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