“To do so would provide an opportunity to strengthen social cohesion in the country.”
Rev Guy Hewitt, a former Barbadian High Commissioner in London and the Church of England’s Racial Justice Director, has recently made an impassioned plea to recognise Emancipation Day in the UK. His influential role and experience lend weight to his call, which he made during an inaugural commemorative Emancipation Day Service in London.
In his address, Rev Hewit said, “As we approach the ten-year countdown to the bicentenary of the Slavery Abolition (Emancipation) Act, which took effect on 1 August 1834, I urge for the recognition of Emancipation Day in the UK. “This seems to be a very reasonable idea as he explained, “This day is already commemorated in the US, Canada, South Africa, and across the Caribbean. By including it as a significant day, like Holocaust Memorial Day, Windrush Day, and Remembrance Day, we can contribute to global efforts in strengthening social cohesion.”
The inaugural commemorative Emancipation Day Service in London on Thursday, August 1st, was a significant event that captivated the large congregation. A moving ceremony with a selection of joyous and poignant music and scriptures created a powerful context for the event, engaging the audience and fostering a sense of connection.
Under the leadership of the Rev. Canon Beverley Hunt of the Guilford Diocese, the diverse clerical team, including Father David Hoyte, Rev Canon Roxanne Hunte–Eversley, and Rev Annie Wojoni, represented a variety of perspectives, making the audience feel included and represented.
The Bajan Voices choir led the congregation’s powerful voices. Soloist Cedric Lynch’s performance of Bob Marley’s “Redemption Song” accompanied by Ronnie Francis on the Steinway piano and Lee-Anne Browne’s “Lift Every Voice and Sing” were particularly moving and powerful contributions to the event.
Among the congregation were local Member of Parliament Belle Riberio and international Opera Singer Peter Braithwaite.
Hosted by the Barbados Overseas Communities and Friends Association (BOCFA), the service was held at St John the Divine, Kennington. Vicar Father Mark Williams welcomed the congregation and highlighted the importance of the Emancipation Day Service and the Act it commemorates.
Tyrone Roach
.
