The Iyanola Council for the Advancement of Rastafari (ICAR) has expressed appreciation to the Government of Saint Lucia for elevating Emancipation Day celebrations and giving greater national recognition to the observance.
President of ICAR, Aaron Alexander, said the organization welcomed the increased prominence given to Emancipation activities under the current administration, describing it as an important step in preserving historical awareness and honoring the struggles of African ancestors.
“As we celebrate and commemorate another year and indeed another month of emancipation, 2026, we say thanks to the Honourable Prime Minister and by extension the Government of Saint Lucia for their continued relentless support for such an observance,” Alexander said.
He said the decision to place Emancipation Day on the national calendar of events represented a significant recognition of its importance.
“Placing it on our national calendar of events and granting it the prominence which is deserving of it.”
Alexander also used the occasion to highlight the long-standing role of the Rastafari community in keeping the message of emancipation alive.
“It has been acknowledged and well established that the Rastafari community have been carrying this heavy load of observing emancipation each year for well over 40 years, always alone.”
He said that, for many years, the observance was often viewed as being solely associated with Rastafari, rather than as a national reflection on history and freedom.
“So much so that when people hear of emancipation, they would just dismiss it as just another Rasta thing.”
However, Alexander said the approach has changed, with Emancipation Day now receiving broader national attention.
“But now, with the coming of this government, the tables have turned and emancipation is now placed as high priority on our national calendar of events.”
“And for this, we say, Jah Rastafari, for the awakening of our people.”
Alexander also praised Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre for his Emancipation Day message, saying continued education about history and sacrifice remains essential.
“So we say thank you for the Prime Minister for his address on emancipation as well.”
He stressed that future generations must remain connected to the sacrifices made by those who endured slavery and fought for freedom.
“Our people must be constantly reminded of the sacrifices made by our ancestors so that we can enjoy the rights and privileges that we have today.”
Alexander warned that forgetting the lessons of history could weaken the connection between present generations and those who struggled before them.
“We must be constantly reminded of that. The least we forget and we lose our way and we become traitors to our ancestors.”
“We must never forget, never ever forget. We must remember everything as if it just happened yesterday.”
The ICAR President said the continued recognition of Emancipation Day provides an opportunity for Saint Lucians to reflect on the country’s history while considering the ongoing journey towards social, cultural and economic empowerment.