Season of Emancipation Activities for May

Barbadians will get the opportunity to reflect, honour and celebrate the victories of their ancestors when a number of activities are staged this month as part of the Season of Emancipation.

On Sunday, May 15, designated International Day of Families, Rock Hall Freedom Park, St. Thomas, will come alive with the sweet aroma of tasty indigenous food, music and cultural performances, at a heritage fair to be held from 2 to 9 p.m.

The highlight of the evening’s celebrations will be a concert honouring spouge greats, Jackie Opel and Draytons Two, among others. There will also be a special “oldie goldie” session with Larry Mayers and DJ Captain Bubbler.

In keeping with the theme of the celebrations, local creatives will have the opportunity to craft the most creative concept that depicts the journey of the family, with the launch of the National Heroes Square Monument Design Competition, also on May 15. There will be attractive prizes up for grabs and the winning piece will be erected in National Heroes Square.

In addition, on that day there will be a virtual Youth Speak roundtable discussion on the Role and Importance of Families, to be aired on CBC TV8.

On Saturday, May 21, designated as World Day of Cultural Diversity, the public is invited to an international cultural event to be held in Golden Square Freedom Park, the City, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Patrons can sample dishes from 12 countries, as well as from local culinary experts.  There will also be entertainment and arts and craft booths.

The activities for the month of May will culminate on Wednesday, May 25, designated as Africa Day, with two events. The first event will be the National Library Service’s Africa Day Story Hour entitled: Under the Casuarina Trees, at Farley Hill National Park, St. Peter, starting at 10 a.m.

One hundred students from the All Saints, Roland Edwards, Wilkie Cumberbatch and St. Mary’s primary schools will hear stories on African traditions from Dean of the Faculty of Culture, Creative and Performing Arts of the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, Dr. David Akombo.

Later in the day beginning at 6 p.m., will be the Roots Experience Fashion Show, in Golden Square Freedom Park.

Minister with responsibility for Culture, Senator Dr. Shantal Munro-Knight, said the Season of Emancipation was designed to not only pay homage to the struggles and victories of our ancestors, but also to unite the nation in the shared interest of rekindling the spirit of community.

“The activities are intended to bring communities, families and artistes together. We encourage all Barbadians to come out and participate in our activities during the month of May and throughout the Season.

“The Division of Culture is committed throughout this Season to ensure that we not only touch on all facets of our culture and heritage but as well as to celebrate the growth that has taken place over the years,” she stated.

All COVID-19 Protocols will be in effect at the events.