The Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture, officially launched the Emancipation Month of Activities and the Inaugural Emancipation Cricket Festival on Tuesday, 15th July, 2025, at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.
The launch marks the beginning of a month-long celebration under the theme: “Embracing Our Past; Forging into the Future”, honouring the legacy of our ancestors, the resilience of our people, and the cultural expressions that continue to define Vincentian identity.
The event featured spirited cultural performances, the unveiling of the Emancipation Month schedule, and the symbolic launch of the Emancipation Cricket Festival, which runs from Thursday, 31st July to Sunday, 3rd August, also at the Arnos Vale Stadium.
In his remarks at the launch, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture, Hon. Carlos James, emphasised the importance of celebrating emancipation not just as a historical event, but as a continuing journey toward empowerment and unity. From the heels of a successful 'One Family' concert two years ago, and following our focus last year more on our Hurricane Beryl recovery, this year’s Emancipation Month of activities will feature exciting additions to our calendar.
The Minister added “This year, we intend to launch a first for our country, a publication researched and penned by Vincentian historians Drs. Garrey Micheal Dennie, Adrian Fraser, Cleve Scott and Arnold Thomas titled The history of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines: Volume I; this historiography chronicles the island’s legacy from slavery to emancipation and is expected to be launched as a part of the month of activities.”
This month, the Ministry aims to educate and honor the strength of our people. Through cricket, cultural activities, music, and storytelling, the Ministry will connect generations and build bridges for the future.
The Emancipation Cricket Festival, a key feature of this year’s activities, will spotlight community teams and national pride in a friendly but competitive atmosphere, paying homage to the historical role of cricket as a unifier during and after colonial rule.
Highlights of the Emancipation Month of Activities include:
- Community Wake – Thursday, 31st July (Diamonds Village)
- Freedom Trail and Drum Circle – Friday, 8th August (Chateaubelair)
- Future Africa: Fashion and Art Exhibition – Saturday, 9th August (Old Public Library)
- Rhythms of Our Ancestors – Friday, 15th August (Kingstown Market)
- Roots and Voices – Wednesday, 20th August (New Montrose)
- Wear Your Heritage on Fridays during the month of August, ending on September 5th, 2025.
The Ministry invites all Vincentians and visitors to join in the activities throughout the month, celebrating our freedom, our heritage, and our collective strength.
For the full schedule and updates, visit the Ministry’s social media pages.
SOURCE: Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Sustainable Development and Culture
