The African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) launched its list of activities scheduled for the celebration of Emancipation at their headquarters in Thomas Lands on Thursday.
The theme for this year’s celebrations is “Our Heritage, Our Strength, Our Prosperity,” with a sub-theme of “Celebrating our Youths.” Emancipation Secretariat head Aisha Jean-Baptiste said the early launch is to make sure that persons are aware of the activities, which will mark the 172nd Emancipation anniversary. Jean-Baptiste added that youth will be the focus this year since young people play a major role in society.
As part of the annual activities, an African village and a country are celebrated. This year, Vergenoegen was selected because of its traditional association with ACDA and its vibrant youth organisation.
Ethiopia, Jean-Baptise said, is the country that will be honoured this year because it is the cradle of civilisation.
Meanwhile, highlighting some of the activities leading up to the August 1 celebrations, Jean-Baptiste noted that Ife House of Santaria will begin a seven day programme of drumming, singing, dancing and storytelling in front of Demico House on July 25.
There will also be a Street Bazaar on Main Street, opposite Courts, a Concert at the National Park on July 30 and the regular candle light march from Demico to Square of the Revolution on July 31.
On August 1, a sunrise service would be held at the National Park from 7am and will include drumming competitions and other cultural programmes.
On the following day, ACDA will host sports activities, which include a freedom race from Square of the Revolution to the National Park, a five-a-side football tournament and domino and volleyball competitions. There will also be emancipation celebrations around the country.
According to Eric Phillips of ACDA, it costs some $10M to run off emancipation but the money never covers everything. When questioned if government was ever formally approached for funding, Phillips said this was not done but noted that companies such as Banks DIH and GT&T are regular supporters. He added that the association welcomes any contributions that persons may want to make.
