Tribute to Kamau Brathwaite

Sycorax”, many well-known cultural practitioners put on passionate performances, some filled with humour and others tear-filled in a tribute to the laureate. Those who attended — some from as far as Africa and New York — told Barbados TODAY that they were honoured to take in such an important dedication. Trinidad-based New York-born Film Maker Robert Lee Sims said that he was impressed with the work of the National Cultural Foundation and the show production. “It’s important for us to always remember our ancestors, to praise the work that they did and make that future generations know the work that they did and know that we stand on the shoulders of our ancestors,” he pointed out. “I must commend this event … the sound was quality, the environment and vibe was great,” the first-time visitor to Barbados said. Designer Joy Workman was glad that Kamau was honoured on the night. “I think celebration and acknowledgment of our ancestors is important because Kamau taught us so much wisdom, the value of history and concepts of creolization and for us to know that we have developed our own stars, to celebrate Kamau is important so that the legacy lives on,” she said. Spoken word poet and cultural practitioner Adrian Greene performed a piece entitled “Ancestor“, which was spirit-filled, calling on the African sons and daughters to rise up. Readings on the stage were also done by, Dr Margaret Gill who did an adaptation of “Dread”, Dr Yvonne Weekes, actor Nala and Professor Pedro Welch who performed Kamau and the Journey to self. (MR)]]>