A La Woz street parade and Gwan Fete was held , Tuesday (August, 30), to mark the celebrations for one of the island’s premier ‘flower festivals’.
As Emancipation celebrations continue, Saint Lucia recently observed the UNESCO International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition.
According to the United Nations Educational, Social and Cultural Organization, Aug. 23, 1791 saw the beginning of an uprising that played a crucial role in the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. Consequently, the observance is commemorated on August, 23 each year.
A panel discussion led by Earl Bousquet in recognition of the observance featured historian, author, and poet Dr. Morgan Dalphinis. Dialogue focused on his publication titled “History and Language in Saint Lucia: 1654 to 1915.”
“As far as the African element in our history most of our histories begin straight in the Caribbean, but we need to look at ancient African history first before we come to the Caribbean,” said Dr. Morgan.
He added, “In the past 3.3 million years ago Africans created language, the idea of family and more than that, the capacity to think. All of those were created by Africans for the rest of humanity.”
Saint Lucia, this year, acknowledged the ‘Emancipation Day’ celebrations with a month of activities. On the calendar of national events for Emancipation was the Grande La Wòz celebration.
The event commenced with a celebratory mass at the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (Cathedral), followed by a street parade, and culminated with a Gwan Fète at the William Peter Boulevard and Constitution Park.
Eight groups delivered presentations in honour of the La Wòz tradition, while local chefs demonstrated their preparation of traditional La Wòz dishes.
Up past the five o’clock ‘rush hour’ spectators were gathered at the Constitution Park to take in the final lap of the creole personations full of colour, dance and drama with the performers attired in traditional cultural wear.