The launch event, held at the Anchorage Car Park on Jn Baptiste Street in Castries, signaled the start of a season of reflection, education, and cultural expression focused on Saint Lucia’s journey toward freedom and national identity.

Speaking at the launch, Minister for Culture Dr. Ernest Hilaire emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring the significance of emancipation is properly honoured through well-resourced and impactful programming.

“As a government, we put the resources of the state behind it to make sure it happened. We believe deep down inside, the best way we can create a pathway for the future is to understand the past, where we came from, what it means to us, and how it defines who we are as a people,” said Dr. Hilaire.

Reflecting on the growth of Emancipation observances over the past three years, Dr. Hilaire recalled the emotional impact of the first concert held on the Castries Waterfront, noting it as a moment that helped awaken national consciousness.

He reaffirmed the government's intention to strengthen cultural and creative ties with African countries, underscoring the shared heritage and mutual potential that bind Saint Lucia to the continent.

“We will continue to promote relationships with Africa and African countries. And I’m looking forward to us in the creative sector and cultural space making that link even more meaningful than it has ever been before.”

Executive Director of the CDF, Raymona Henry-Wynne, challenged the nation to think critically about the meaning of emancipation in today’s context, urging deeper investment in empowerment through culture.

She said, “What is freedom if people don’t have the tools to express it? What is emancipation if we are still confined by systems of dependency, invisibility, or silence?”

She outlined the CDF’s broader strategy to equip artists, creatives, and community leaders with training and opportunities to become agents of cultural change. “Instilling cultural confidence in our youth through stories, traditions and platforms that reflect who they are” is central to that mission, she explained.

This year’s celebrations are expected to include a range of events and activities aimed at deepening public understanding of emancipation, while also celebrating the resilience, creativity, and contributions of Saint Lucians of African descent.

The calendar will blend educational forums, performances, exhibitions, and community outreach with the goal of igniting national dialogue on identity, history, and the way forward.