Messages: 189th Anniversary Of Emancipation
The Human Rights Commission, CURB and Imagine Bermuda have come together to highlight the 189th anniversary of Emancipation.
A spokesperson said, “The Human Rights Commission, CURB and Imagine Bermuda have come together to highlight the 189th anniversary of Emancipation. This, in recognition of the reality that this milestone was the result of decades of actions of ‘ordinary people’ across various jurisdictions, leading to global implications.
“While the Somerset and St George’s Cricket Clubs have thankfully sustained Cup Match for more than a century, offering symbolic reference to Emancipation; this initiative seeks to deepen our community’s appreciation of this paradigm shift.
“To that end a cross-section of today’s leadership are sharing their reflections on Emancipation and the implication of this legacy for our current society, as well as that of upcoming generations.”
Premier David Burt
Premier Burt said, “On Emancipation Day, we reflect on the moment our ancestors received their long overdue freedom on August 1, 1834, as slavery was abolished across the British Empire.
“The immense joy of this celebration springs from the struggles endured by our ancestors against oppression and inequality.
“We honour the defiant spirit of figures like Sarah “Sally” Bassett and Mary Prince, whose stories of courage resonated beyond our shores and accelerated the abolition movement in the British Empire.
“Today, as we face global challenges such as economic disparity, climate change, and social justice issues, we take inspiration from the resilience and bravery of those who came before us.
“Emancipation extends beyond a singular historical event; it is a continual journey toward equality, justice, and freedom, so as we reflect on our history and let us also recommit to confronting any discrimination that threatens these ideals, now and in the future.”
Governor Rena Lalgie
Governor Lalgie said, “We have so much to celebrate on Emancipation Day and Mary Prince Day. For me it is also sobering. In 2023 we still should not be complacent about the liberties or freedom we enjoy today not least because so many still remain enslaved.
“We stand on our ancestors’ shoulders, with rights and responsibilities born out of their struggle and sacrifice. We cannot take lightly the responsibility to honour them in how we think, what we say, and most importantly what we choose to do with our freedom.”
U.S. Consul General Karen Grissette
U.S. Consul General Karen Grissette said, “It is an honor to share in Bermuda’s celebration of Emancipation Day. In the United States, we now celebrate emancipation on Juneteenth, a day that recognizes when 250,000 still-enslaved people were finally freed from bondage, three years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
“Emancipation Day provides the opportunity to reflect on our countries’ imperfect histories and seek to improve the future for our children.
“The United States was founded on the idea that all people are created equal and have certain unalienable rights – life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. As President Biden has said, “While we in America have never fully lived up to those words, we have also never given up on them.”
“We recognize that people of African descent in the United States continue to face racism, centuries after the practice of slavery has been abolished.
“Working together, we strive to ensure full equality for all people, and to root out racism and discrimination in all its ugly forms. By joining in shared purpose, we can make needed progress for a brighter and more equitable future for all.”
Bermuda Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Officer Danielle Riviere
Danielle Riviere said, “Emancipation Day in Bermuda, a symbol of liberation, represents more than historical significance; it’s a universal symbol of freedom and human dignity. This joyous day holds a mirror to our hearts, allowing us to understand our shared humanity, transcending boundaries and uniting us in the spirit of liberation.
“In today’s world, emancipation is not solely about breaking physical chains, but about shedding mental and emotional restrictions that limit us. It encourages us to foster a world where every voice matters, where every dream has the chance to flourish. On Emancipation Day, we celebrate the strength of the human spirit, its relentless pursuit of freedom, and the transformative power of resilience.
“As we bask in the festive spirit, let’s remember to embrace emancipation in its fullness, carving a path that paves the way for boundless potential and uninhibited human expression.”
For extensive coverage of Cup Match spanning over a decade, visit our website BernewsCupMatch.com, the island’s most comprehensive resource on the Cup Match holiday.
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