ONE hundred and seventy-seven years ago the cry of freedom reverberated throughout the British Commonwealth. It was the cry of Africans, enslaved for hundreds of years in chattel slavery, now free! The achievement of emancipation, which was not without struggles, was among the first major accomplishment in a people’s march for self-determination. It is a march that has been paved with setbacks, challenges and achievements. Most importantly, this experience ought to serve as reminder that freedom was/is never free. Freedom requires eternal vigilance and sacrifices to preserve and defend gains, even as achievements are marked along the way, and work is intensified to strengthen, deepen and advance the cause.
The United Nations Declaration fortifies the principle that “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights….are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.” This principle is safeguarded in the Constitution, notably, Title 1 that guarantees the ‘Protection of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms of the Individual.’ These instruments serve as a reminder that the struggle must not cease until attainment is achieved for all.
And though the African community has much to be proud of, there remain concerns that ought to be addressed. Among the accomplishments are the roles played in laying the foundation of modern Guyana such as the establishment of the Village, Cooperative and Labour movements. Among concerns are the community’s socio-economic status and treatment in the political order. Thus it means the struggle for equality and freedom must continue.
As this generation marks the achievement of their ancestors 177 years ago, may efforts be redoubled to safeguard and build on it.
Happy Emancipation!
* Lincoln Lewis
* Guyana Trades Union Congress