Emancipation celebrations launched in Dominica

The National Cultural Council and the Division of Culture in Dominica has launched the 2017 Emancipation Celebrations.

This year’s festivities, which will run from 28 July to 5 August, are themed around ‘Building a Culture of Peace’.

Among the week of activities planned for later this month are a concert at the Arawak House of Culture and a bélé night in Paix-Bouche, which will be a tribute to Robeline Walter, one of Dominica’s prominent bélé dancers.

Raymond Lawrence, chief cultural officer in Dominica, said: “The emancipation celebration is geared towards building awareness of the significance of the abolition of slavery and also the impact which slavery and emancipation have had on our modern-day society and the legacy which was handed down to us by our African ancestors.”

Packed with activities

On Tuesday, 1 August, an emancipation showcase will be held at the Peebles Park, adjacent to the Neg Marron statue.

Later that week an art exhibition will be open at the Old Mill Cultural Centre, as well as an emancipation forum to discuss the preservation of Dominica’s culture.

The highlight of the celebration is the Golden Drum Award ceremony, which is scheduled for 5 August.

Six individuals will receive accolades at the Arawak House Gala.

The First Serenade Band, Derek ‘Rah’ Peter, Dennis Joseph, Morris Guiste, Theresa Mondesire and Carlton Merrifield are the recipients.

Special recognition awards will be given to Cornelius Royer, Convent High School, Africulture Stilt Walkers, Mighty Acre and Lauren Delsol.

Featured image from avirtualdominica.com.