REGION Two Chairperson, Vilma De Silva, highlighted the significance of emancipation, describing it as a testament to the resilience, strength, and indomitable spirit of ancestors who endured unimaginable hardships.
Speaking at the Essequibo African Movement’s Emancipation programme at the Anna Regina Car Park, Damon Square, on the eve of Emancipation, De Silva emphasised the importance of Emancipation Day, which marks the end of slavery in the British colonies on August 1, 1834.

De Silva noted that the courage and perseverance of the ancestors laid the foundation for a diverse and vibrant society. “Here in Guyana, the legacy of emancipation is deeply woven into our national identity.”
“It reminds us of our duty to uphold the values of freedom, equality, and justice,” she said.
In observance of Emancipation, Guyana’s citizens are advised to contemplate the trials of the past and commemorate the cultural prosperity that arose from those challenging periods. This includes the music, dance, food, and traditions that form the tapestry of the nation’s heritage.

De Silva called on Essequibians to work together, bridge divides, and ensure that the benefits of hard-won freedom are enjoyed by all citizens. She urged Essequibians to celebrate Emancipation Day with pride, acknowledging the past, embracing the present, and looking forward to a future where the spirit of emancipation lives on in every heart and home across Guyana.
The programme featured African dances, poetry, and reflections, offering residents a rich cultural experience. Greetings were extended from the various African groups in the region.