Emancipation 2025 Antigua and Barbuda Celebrates 191 Years of Emancipation
The Antigua and Barbuda Reparations Support Commission (ABRSC) proudly joins the nation in commemorating 191 years since Emancipation, a momentous occasion that reminds us of the courage, endurance, and unyielding spirit of our African ancestors. Emancipation is not just a date in history; it is a living, breathing call to remember who we are, to honour the struggles that birthed our freedom, and to recommit ourselves to unity, resilience, and nation-building.
This year’s observance holds special significance with the presence of Dr. Julius Garvey, son of the legendary Marcus Mosiah Garvey. Dr. Garvey’s visit is more than symbolic, it is a deeply meaningful moment in our history, one that brings the legacy of Pan-Africanism full circle. His father’s visit to Antigua in the late 1930s left an indelible mark on the consciousness of our people, and now, his son returns to join us in celebration, reflection, and affirmation of our shared journey toward justice and liberation.
Chairman of the ABRSC, H.E. Dorbrene Omarde, reflects on this historic connection, noting that Dr. Garvey’s presence during Emancipation 2025 is a powerful tribute to the impact Marcus Garvey had on the Pan-African movement throughout the Caribbean. His ideas continue to inspire generations to stand tall in the face of systemic injustice and advocate for reparatory justice across the region.
Ambassador Anthony Liverpool, Vice Chair of the ABRSC, is urging all Antiguans and Barbudans to pause amid the revelry and acknowledge the tremendous weight of what Emancipation represents. “It is a time to reflect on the horrors of chattel slavery, the triumph of survival, and the power of our collective spirit. Emancipation reminds us of our sacred responsibility to honour that legacy, not just through ceremony, but through action, education, and unity.”
This year’s Emancipation activities, coordinated by the ABRSC, are a call to consciousness and pride. It all starts off on Friday, July 25 – Africa Dress Day: A national call to proudly wear African-inspired attire in tribute to our heritage and the Ancestors who paved the path to freedom. Sunday, July 27 – Emancipation Sunday: Collective worship and reflection ahead of Emancipation Day. Monday, July 28 – Uhuru Spiritual Awaken (Broadcast on ABS TV): A digital production, showcasing spoken word, African fashion, music, and dance celebrating emancipation, produced by ABRSC.
Thursday, July 31 – 17th Annual Watchnight Gathering at the Botanical Gardens (7:30 p.m.): A sacred tradition of remembrance featuring music, libations, drumming, iron band performances, messages of hope, and a keynote address by Dr. Julius Garvey.
And Friday, August 1 – Emancipation Day Church Service at Green Bay Moravian Church (6:00 a.m.), followed by a full day of festivities at Emancipation Village in St. John’s: food, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and more.
One of the most anticipated highlights of the Emancipation season is the 17th Annual Watchnight Gathering, taking place on Thursday, July 31st, at the Botanical Gardens from 7:30 p.m. This treasured tradition is a cultural and spiritual cornerstone of our emancipation observance. For enslaved Africans, Watchnight represented a night of hope, waiting with bated breath for the first sign of freedom. Today, it is a moving celebration filled with drumming, libations, iron band music, song, spoken word, and messages of strength and remembrance. This year’s gathering will be especially meaningful with Dr. Julius Garvey delivering the keynote address, reinforcing the deep historical and spiritual connections we continue to honour.
Following the Watchnight Gathering, the nation will rise in praise and remembrance with the annual Emancipation Day Church Service at the Green Bay Moravian Church on Friday, August 1st, at 6:00 a.m. From the solemnity of worship, celebrations will move to the heart of St. John’s, where the Emancipation Village will come alive.
The Emancipation Village, also on August 1st, will transform the city into a vibrant hub of cultural expression. It is a space for families, artists, historians, and community members to come together in the spirit of celebration and education. With traditional foods, local crafts, live music, and cultural showcases, the Village not only entertains but teaches, offering a rich, immersive experience of Antigua and Barbuda’s heritage. It is a chance to pause, to honour the sacrifices of those who came before us, and to revel in the beauty, creativity, and strength of our people.
The 2025 observance reminds us that emancipation is more than a moment; it is a movement.
More details and updates will follow in the coming days as the nation prepares to honour 191 years of freedom, resistance, and triumph.
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#Kaiso_Thyme…
…Celebrating and living are two separate, and distinctive things.
…While it’s good to celebrate and commemorate
…those #freedoms attained, from that date
…many still cannot see themselves, as being free
…due to such things, as institutionalized slavery
…crooked politicians #who’re raping our treasury
…and, generation after generation; still living #hand_to_mouth daily!
…the People still MUST take a stand
…as, they navigate Institutions like the Judiciary
…because in many ways; whilst we’re celebrating
…others are surreptitiously; undermining our Culture
…I’m referencing those #Culture_Vultures
…swooshing and swooping in
…while, some with guns in their hands
…are reaping havoc, spreading mayhem!
…all over, these serene and beautiful islands!
…so, while you’re celebrating!
…please pay attention, to what is happening
…on our streets! High noon to Sun baked mornings!
…because, definitely; a new day is dawning!
Jumbee_Picknee aka Ras Smood
De’ole Dutty Peg🦶🏽Garrat_Bastard
Vere Edwards
What emancipation? Tell that to the western world who controls our destiny. One of their favourite word is sanction.
by now at least I have come to accept this as a loaf of hot air and photo OPP no matter who is leading
Dr. Julius Garvey’s visit is powerful. A reminder that our history still lives and breathes through us. Emancipation isn’t over.
I wonder what Marcus, would say that after all these years, Antigua final appellate court is still in the hands of those who enslaved us, when there is a court just as good in the región?
Love the lineup, Africa Dress Day and the Watch night Gathering are always highlights. Let’s show up proud and united this year!