By Delicia Janneire
Residents of Bagotville and Den Amstel in Region Three gathered for traditional Libation ceremonies last evening, celebrating Emancipation and reflecting on their communities’ rich history.
Clad in vibrant African cultural attire, men, women, and children participated in the ceremonies, which were marked by reflection and unity.
Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, attended both ceremonies, joining the residents of Bagotville in honoring significant monuments that represent the African struggle and commitment to liberation.
Chairperson of the Bagotville Community Development Council (CDC), Olivia David, highlighted four key monuments in the community, including the long-standing tamarind tree, a symbol of African freedom and the pooling of resources by freed slaves.
Other notable landmarks include a monument dedicated to Jay Crocker, a member of the emancipation group, and another honoring Gershawn Brown, a centenarian and World War veteran from the community.
In his remarks, Minister Edghill emphasized the importance of learning from history, urging the community to rally together in love and unity.
His message encouraged Bagotville residents to heal past wounds and embrace each other, calling love a more powerful force than hate.
Later in the evening, the Minister attended the celebration in Den Amstel, which featured African songs, dances, and other cultural displays in honor of Emancipation.