On the evening of Nov. 28, residents from various areas across the island of Barbados gathered in Queens Park to witness the brilliantly designed architecture and the Marcus Garvey Amphitheater’s official opening. After years of embracing the ideas of Garveyism, many felt it was an honor to be a part of the historical event.
In his opening remarks, emcee for the evening Chrispen Hackett said the opening of the amphitheater is where “arts meet history and undertake the work… and it is not only a moment of brilliance but also one of history.”
Hackett noted that Marcus Garvey first visited Barbados in 1937, and since then, every “public man” in Barbados between 1918 and 1940 has been influenced and shaped by the late Marcus Garvey’s work.
For her part, welcoming the residents and congratulating the effort of all those who made it possible and for this historic accomplishment, the Marcus Garvey Amphitheatre,
Barbados’ Prime Minister, Mia Amora Mottley, and members of the Ministry of Culture, including Minister Shantal Munro-Knight and her officers from the cultural division, expressed profound thanks and praise for the achievement.
Prime Minister Mottley, unveiling the plaque at the Amphitheater, said this national art gallery is a welcoming part of Barbados’s culture. The Barbadian people reflect on the physical space and Marcus Garvey’s contribution to modern development with immense pride and anticipation.
Mottley said the new Marcus Garvey Amphitheater would house speeches, readings, and videotapes highlighting Marcus Garvey’s work, which visitors can listen to and watch while there.
The prime minister said Barbadians should be inspired by the demanding work and the commitment to continue “to ensure that our children and grandchildren embrace this space in the center of our capital… This must be the cultural hub for us; we are adding to the tapestry of our country.”
In continuing to expound on the excellence of the historic moment, the Prime Minister said, “It is important for our people to understand that these messages of Marcus Garvey resonate with the Barbadian people.” Mottley stated, “It must always be accessible to us to come and embrace our history.”
Several Barbarian musicians, youth group dancers, poets, and various presenters also significantly contributed to the evening’s event by reflecting with speeches through their art on Marcus Garvey’s age-old messages.
