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The annual emancipation festival in Trinidad and Tobago, which commemorates the end of chattel slavery on August 1, 1838, has been described as a monumental pan-African festival . . . a true celebration of Africa outside of Africa . . . come to this multi-dimensional commemoration and find an inspirational experience beyond your imagination.   more »



The Emancipation Support Committee

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The Emancipation Support Committee of Trinidad and Tobago is an African organization, which for the last 12 years, has been commemorating the event with public lectures, trade shows, concerts and processions.

Without a doubt, the commemoration of emancipation in 2005 will provide another moment of pride for Trinidad and Tobago and contribute positively to the country’s international image. But the goals go far beyond building pride and image enhancement.

Emancipation is another moment for Africans to re-dedicate themselves to continue building on the foundations for freedom and progress laid down by those who fought successfully for our emancipation. It will be another moment for the entire population to pay respect to the African aspect of our national heritage and for all of us citizens of this nation to take stock of how far we have come from August 1, 1838, to embrace the platforms for development and collective action provided by the commemorative activities, to rethink what emancipation means for a country facing the challenges of the 21st Century, and to act resolutely to ensure that our country claims its rightful space in a daunting world. Our Haitian ancestors faced what seemed to be insurmountable odds, and won. We owe it to them to face our future with optimism.

Africans Need A Strong International Voice

I spoke to a friend in Haiti a few days ago. He was ecstatic. He had lost his family home and virtually all material belongings in the 2010 earthquake. His injured mother was hospitalised for months. He lived under a tarpaulin. His wife recently gave birth to their first child and he was fired from his job because he demonstrated for the return of Aristide. But on the phone he was shouting with joy and enthusiasm

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Background to International Year

Background To International Year for People of African Descent

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Working Group

WORKING GROUP OF EXPERTS ON PEOPLE OF AFRICAN DESCENT

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Multiculturalism

STATEMENT PREPARED FOR THE GOPIO CONSULTATION ON MULTICULTURALISM

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Recent Photos

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