IN what would be described as a true journey to emancipation, Courts Guyana celebrated the Emancipation festivity with staff, patrons and friends, yesterday at the mega-store’s Main Street operations. The programme saw full cultural performances from local and regional African cultural groups, with appearances from the Whaul singing sisters and local fashion designer Carol Frazer.
The true journey began at the entrance of the store, where patrons were greeted by drumming from members of the Magic Fingers Drumming School, after which there was a display of traditional African wear by members of staff, patrons, and groups visiting from overseas.
Among those present were Mr Eric Phillips, representing the African Cultural & Development Association (ACDA); Mr. Clyde De Haas, Managing Director of Courts; Tracy Smith, Director of Purchasing at Courts Guyana Limited; and members of the visiting performing groups.
The Whaul sisters treated the audience to renditions of African songs, after which there was a traditional dance by Kijana Lewis of the Classique Dance Company.
ACDA executive member Mr. Eric Phillips, in his presentation, congratulated the management and staff of Courts for their initiative in hosting this cultural event as Guyana celebrates its 174th Emancipation Anniversary. He noted that Courts and Emancipation have become synonymous; and, as such, he extended congratulations on behalf of ACDA.
Poet and ACDA member Rochelle Christene delivered her Emancipation poem, which referred to Reverend Dr Martin Luther King’s ‘I have a dream’ speech, and this was followed by performances from the visiting Surinamese, Muziekformatie Oposkifi.
The Journey to Emancipation pageant, which is the traditional display of African wear from some members of the Courts staff, saw employees Michelle Griffith and Randolph Nurse emerging the winners.
The Managing Director of Courts, Clyde De Haas, presented to ACDA an Emancipation cheque worth $200,000.
The cultural presentation concluded with a performance from the Ascot Dancers of Jamaica.