“Let freedom reign. The sun never set on so glorious a human achievement” – Nelson Mandela.
In 1833 Thomas Buxton presented the Emancipation Bill in British Parliament, and on August 1st 1834 the Act was passed and British West Indian slaves were granted freedom. On August 1st 1985 the Government of Trinidad and Tobago declared Emancipation Day a national holiday in order to celebrate the abolition of slavery. Emancipation day is an opportunity for the nation to reflect on the struggles our African forefathers endured under the slavery system; the horror of the Middle Passage, the hardships of life as a slave in the West Indies and the separation of families are just a few of the many sorrows of slavery.
Today, many see this day as one of celebration. Here in Trinidad and Tobago we recognise our rich African heritage as many local cultural bodies host events showcasing the food, language, dress, music and musical instruments, dance, folklore, religion, and Art/craft of this vibrant and strong ethnic group that have firmly planted their roots throughout the Caribbean and the world. There is a deep sense of pride as one reflects on the road to freedom and the numerous accomplishments our brothers and sisters of African ancestry have achieved.
Trinidad and Tobago is proud of its African culture that can be seen throughout our country, we are all familiar with souse, callaloo, coo coo and oil down, we see persons fashionably dressed in the bold, bright prints and colours of traditional African wear. The Limbo and Kalinda (stick fighting) are dances we have all seen at Carnival time and cultural events. A visit to the Lidj Yasu Omowale Emancipation Village in Trinidad is a wonderful opportunity to expose our youth to the rich heritage of our African ancestors. And of course, the beat of African drums pulsates in our Kaiso, Calypso, Soca, and Best Village competitions every year.
On behalf of RHAND Credit Union Cooperative Society Limited, we wish all a wonderful and safe Emancipation Holiday.
For more on the history and celebrations of Emancipation Day in Trinidad and Tobago, visit the National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS) online at the following link:
For a complete list of the Emancipation Support Committee of Trinidad and Tobago’s events for Emancipation celebrations in 2011 visit the following link:
http://www.panafricanfestival.org/content/Schedule%202011.pdf
