THE late Guyanese artist and sculptor Philip Moore will be honoured, as part of the 2012 Emancipation observances, by the African Cultural Development Association (ACDA) and the Museum of African Heritage. Coincidentally, Guyana will be celebrating its 178th Emancipation Anniversary under the theme ‘Reclaiming our rights through unified purpose’.
Executive Director of ACDA, Mr. Eric Phillips said, in memory of Moore, there will be a candle light vigil along with booths showcasing his notable works in the National Park on August 1.
Moore, who died last May 12, has produced several works, including the 1763 Monument at Square of the Revolution and also made significant contributions to national development.
Phillips said the National Park will also see various activities on Emancipation Day, as ACDA is set to host sports tournaments, prayer services, a family fun day and a children’s parade in which a group from Jamaica will be appearing.
He said ACDA will be joining Uganda, “the pearl of Africa”, Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica in celebrating their 50th independence in the month of August.
Exhibition
Meanwhile, the Museum of African Heritage will be hosting the launch of the Emancipation Programme on Friday, July 27 and an exhibition on August 3 at the National Museum.
ACDA would be visiting various African communities, too, to observe Emancipation.
Slavery was abolished in all British colonies, including Guyana – the former British Guiana on August 1, 1834.
The British Emancipation Act was passed in 1833 and came into force on August 1, 1834, putting an end to the atrocious system of slavery which, for centuries, although having inflicted much pain and suffering, made significant impacts on the cultural landscape of the Caribbean.