The Virgin Islands Emancipation Exhibition will be showcased at the Sir Olva Georges Plaza on Thursday, August 1, 2024. Photo: GIS

Director of Culture, Dr Katherine A. Smith said the exhibition will offer visitors an engaging experience that delves into the profound meaning of the VI freedom today, and the historical experiences from which its ancestors were emancipated.

Dr Smith said through a compelling combination of text and imagery, the exhibition will narrate the evolving celebration of freedom by Virgin Islanders, from early times to the present Emancipation Festival.

“We celebrate freedom every year through the Emancipation Festival, which is the largest of our festivals,” the director said. She added, “We hope to explore the powerful reasons which underpin this dynamic celebration, the meaning of freedom for us, the experiences of our enslaved ancestors which have shaped our Virgin Islands today, and the traditions of this Emancipation Festival.”

Dr Smith further stated, “During the period of enslavement, the Virgin Islands' cultural identity was birthed. Out of the interaction between our African ancestors and the the colonising European societies emerged the beginnings of new unique and vibrant culture and identity that defines the Virgin Islands today. Therefore, it is only fitting that the celebration of Emancipation, of freedom, is carried out through grand cultural expression.

Tribute to freedom fighters

Attendees will also have the opportunity to explore displays honouring both past and present Festival Queens, as well as pay tribute to our freedom fighters who are now celebrated as National Heroes. Additionally, the exhibition will feature the rich history of our two free villages, Long Look and Kingstown, showcasing their significant role in Virgin Islands heritage.

Director of the Virgin Islands Studies Institute, Mrs Bernadine A. Louis said “The Virgin Islands Studies Institute is pleased to have joined with the Department of Culture on this educational – informational exhibition which offers a look into the history of emancipation and the beginnings of the celebration of our Emancipation Festival in the Virgin Islands. It should prove to be a great resource for all to enjoy but more importantly to understand from where we have come and how far we have come.”

The Emancipation Exhibition is designed to be an enduring tribute and will be a valuable cultural resource that can be re-used annually, ensuring its continued contribution to the promotion of Virgin Islands culture.

The Department of Culture is inviting the Virgin Islands community to join in celebrating the Territory’s heritage and freedom at this exhibition.

The public is invited to the opening ceremony on Thursday, August 1 at the Sir Olva Georges Plaza at 5:00 PM. The exhibition will close at the end of Heritage Month on August 31. This is a collaborative initiative with the Virgin Islands Studies Institute at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College.

The Department of Culture is committed to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Virgin Islands. Through a range of programs and partnerships, the Department strives to enhance public understanding and appreciation of our history and traditions.