Chairman of the National Cultural Foundation (NCF), Monique Taitt, wants Barbadians to embrace the Season of Emancipation.
She also is appealing to the public to try to understand the significance of each event.
Taitt told those attending the launch of the Season yesterday at the Savannah Hotel that each event signified an important milestone in Barbados’ history and told the story of the journey that was made from slavery and colonialism to freedom, democracy and independence.
She noted that some of this year’s Crop Over activities would pay tribute to the celebration of Emancipation.
“We recognise that for the most part, Crop Over is regarded as an occasion for feting. But, we also feel that it is very important that Barbadians understand, even as they make merry at that time of year, that there are very serious reasons for our celebrations.
“We must, therefore, look at the origins of Crop Over and recognise that this was the only time of year when our ancestors had an opportunity to relax and enjoy themselves, after labouring on the plantations to harvest the sugar,” she stated.
Taitt said Barbadians should give thanks for those ancestors and stalwarts like the National Heroes who, through their hard work and dedication, laid the foundation for Barbados.
She noted that in celebration of the Day of National Significance on July 26, the NCF would be staging the Crop Over Folk Concert at Charles Fort, Hilton Barbados. “In addition, part of the celebration of Emancipation Day will take place on the Spring Garden Highway as a component of Bridgetown Market,” she said.
The NCF Chairman disclosed that other festival events such as the Gospel Concert, Church Service, heritage lectures, exhibitions at the official opening of the gala and Ceremonial Delivery of the Last Canes and the visual arts exhibitions, would all be opportunities to highlight the country’s proud heritage.
