News

Vincentians gained valuable insights into the nation’s history and the impacts of climate change through the “History, Heritage and Memory: Garifuna Prisoners of War” exhibition and book launch, held from July 31st to August 1st, at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Global Campus in Kingstown.

JEMS Progressive Community Organisation (JEMS Environmental Management Services) organised the two-day initiative in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture and Creative Industries. The event featured the Garifuna Prisoners of War exhibition alongside the launch of several publications by author and JEMS President Dr. Andrew Simmons focusing on climate change, youth, migration, and institutional resilience.

Addressing the opening ceremony on July 31st, Dr. Simmons emphasised the importance of understanding the nation’s past, noting that “a person who has no knowledge of their history is like a tree without roots.”

He said the exhibition and accompanying publications provide valuable lessons about Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ history, particularly the experiences and contributions of the country’s Indigenous people.

Dr. Simmons explained that the exhibition presents carefully researched information illustrating the leadership of the first Paramount Chief Joseph Chatoyer. He described him as an astute leader and skilled negotiator who united people in resistance against British colonialism. He also highlighted the little-known history of Garifuna freedom fighters who were taken from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to the United Kingdom as prisoners of war, where many suffered tragic fates.

Among the publications launched were ''Impacts of Climate Change on Youth in Small Island Communities; Climate Change Adaptation Framework and Youth Entrepreneurship in West Africa;'' and ''Building Institutions for Resilience: Combating Climate Change'' by Andrew Simmons and Andree-Ann Simmons (2023). The event also featured the article ''Towards a Better Recognition of the Impacts of Environmental Changes on Migration Trends in the Caribbean: A Focus on the Agriculture Sector'' by Andrew Simmons and Helene Glenisson (2024).

The launch included presentations from Governor General His Excellency Sir Stanley Kendrick John, KC; ACADO SVG Chief Executive Officer Jimmie Forde; and historian Dr. Adrian Fraser, who spoke on the exhibition’s historical relevance. Also, Minister of Youth, Sports, Culture and Creative Industries Kaschaka Cupid and Director of Culture Maxine Browne were among other distinguished guests.

CEO of ACADO SVG, Jimmie Forde, described the exhibition as significant because it generated greater public awareness of important aspects of the country’s history that are not widely known.

The exhibition and book launch underscored the importance of preserving Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ cultural heritage. They also encourage dialogue on climate resilience, migration, and sustainable development.

SOURCE: Agency For Public Information (API)