‘Remember to Empower!’ – Antigua and Barbuda Celebrating Emancipation #190 2024

The Antigua and Barbuda Reparations Support Commission has announced that Antigua and Barbuda will this year celebrate the 190th anniversary of the Emancipation of slavery in 1834, under the theme: ‘Remember to Empower.’

The Antigua and Barbuda Reparations Support Commission notes that our recognition and celebration of this milestone is not just a cultural activity, but a time for serious reflection on our achievements as an Antigua and Barbuda nation and Caribbean region.

Amb. Anthony Liverpool, Vice Chair of the Antigua and Barbuda Reparations Support Commission, indicated further that Emancipation 190 will seek to continue our efforts to raise awareness about our African ancestry, while at the same time sending a strong signal that we as citizens of Antigua and Barbuda and the Caribbean feel proud to celebrate our ‘Emancipation’ annually and take time out from the Carnival to pay homage and give thanks for our achievements as a nation.

The activities planned for this year’s celebration will begin on Friday, 26th July, with the hosting of Africa Dress Day.

This day serves as a call for individuals to proudly don African dashikis and cultural attire, honoring our African heritage and paying tribute to the ancestors who fought for our nation’s freedom.

The celebration continues with the rebroadcasting on Monday, 29th July, on ABS Television of “Uhuru Spiritually Awaken” – a production by ABRSC that celebrates emancipation.

This production will showcase spoken word artists, African fashion, song, dance, and more.

The 16th annual Watchnight Gathering will take place on Wednesday, 31st July, at the Botanical Gardens from 7:30 pm. Watchnight is a cherished tradition that symbolizes the enslaved Africans’ anticipation for news of their freedom.

It is an evening of music, libation, drumming, messages, songs, iron band performances, and more—a celebration of freedom, faith, community, and resilience.

This year, our feature address will be delivered by St. Lucian, Dr. June Soomer, St. Lucia Chair of the United Nations Permanent Forum for People of African Descent.

The Emancipation celebrations will continue with the annual Emancipation Day Church Service at the Green Bay Moravian Church on Thursday, 1st August, at 6 am.

Following the church service, a day of celebration awaits in the heart of St. John’s, featuring delectable food, arts and crafts, music, entertainment, and more.

Stay tuned for further updates and details about the various activities in the days to come.