The Buxton First of August Movement has planned a series of activities to celebrate Emancipation Day this year, beginning with a church service tomorrow from 7.30 am at Friendship Methodist Church.
According to a press release from the First of August Movement, the theme for the activities is ‘175 years as a Community,’ as this year’s observances also mark the 175th anniversary of the founding of the village.
A feature of this year’s programme is the launch of the Kwayana Lecture Series, named in honour of prominent Buxtonian and Guyanese political activist and educator, Eusi Kwayana, the release said. A symposium titled ‘Towards the Restoration of African Guyanese Pride’ is set for Wednesday, July 29 at 6.30 pm at the Friendship Primary School with Nigel Hughes, Kimani Nehusi, Ayana McAlman and Sharma Solomon as panelists.
The annual Emancipation Eve Extravaganza is set for Friday, July 31 and the night’s activity starts with a libation and spiritual service at the Emancipation Monument at the Market Square. This starts at 6 pm and will be followed at 8 pm by a cultural programme at the Buxton Line Top that will include drumming, drama, dancing, storytelling, steel band music, calypso, ‘Nancy Story’ and folk singing.
On August 1, Emancipation Day, the young people will host the elders of the village at a day of feasting and merriment at the Friendship Primary School beginning at midday.
The release said that a major village initative is expected to be launched at this activity and the featured speaker will be First Lady Sandra Granger.
Education Groundings is billed for Sunday August 2 at the Friendship Primary School beginning at 3 pm where Education Minister Dr Rupert Roopnaraine will engage members of the community on his vision for education and hear from them about their ideas for education reform.
Another cultural event is set for Wednesday August 5 from at 6 pm. ‘Leh we gaff and talk story’ will feature drumming, queh-queh, storytelling, Nancy story and ring games.
The activities end on August 9 when the organization hosts an Economic Empowerment Summit at the Friendship Primary School at 3 pm. Speakers include Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, Presidential Advisor, Aubrey Norton and others, the release said.
