As we get ready to celebrate 27 years of emancipation here in T&T, the Islamic Resource Society will stage its 17th Annual Emancipation Lecture today, at the Communications Workers Union Hall on Henry Street, Port-of-Spain. According to Kwesi Atiba, member of the society, the keynote address will be delivered by Dr Rawle Gibbons, and will focus on the announcement by the UN that 2011 is to be recognised as the International Year For People Of African Descent.
"The Islamic Resource Society recognises and pays tribute to the two major ethnic groups in T&T. For Indian Arrival Day we host an event, likewise for Emancipation Day. "The lectures given each year for Emancipation celebration usually reflect on the people of African origin in the Diaspora, from the time of enslavement to our present state," explained Atiba. He added that acknowledgement was also given to special individuals who forced the hand of the colonial masters to abolish the slave trade and slavery.
"We must pay homage to those who fought and even died....all who contributed to the freedom of the people of African origin that we can today, exercise our culture and exist in harmony with all other ethnic groups." Atiba said the event was open to the public, people of all religions, ethnic and cultural backgrounds. He said entertainment and light refreshments would be provided. "Come and enjoy an evening of learning and loving who we are as the people of African origin," he urged.
For more information on the event, call 735-2659/ 731-2763.