Poor Support for Watchnight Gathering Leaves Minister Disappointed

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Displeased with the representation of the Emancipation Day observance at the 16th yearly Watchnight Gathering on Wednesday evening, the Minister of Education, Sports, and Creative Industries expressed disappointment towards the overshadowing of the event by simultaneous carnival celebrations.

The Minister, Daryll Matthew, felt that more should be done to engage and educate people about this activity.
Organized by the Antigua and Barbuda Reparations Support Commission, the Watchnight Gathering took place at the Botanical Gardens.

During the Wednesday evening event, Minister Daryll Matthew addressed the disappointing turnout, emphasizing the need for renewed interest in the planned activities for Emancipation Day.

He concurred with the previous appeals made by the Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Reparations Support Commission, Ambassador Dorberene O’Marde, calling for the formal recognition of the events on a national holiday specifically designated for Emancipation Day, emphasizing that it should be done through mutual agreement.

“I hope that next year we will see a larger turnout at this event,” the minister stated. “But before July 31st, 2025, I genuinely hope that there will be a national dialogue that asks challenging questions, and that is honest and sincere, with the country’s well-being at its core.