Hundreds flock National Park for ACDA’s Emancipation celebrations

As Guyana celebrates 187 years since the abolition of slavery, hundreds of Guyanese flocked to the National Park, Thomas Lands, Georgetown, to take part in the festivities, where various groups showcased their rich culture through food, clothing, music, and artifacts. Proof that the shackles have been removed was clearly evident, as scores of persons gathered at the National Park, proudly celebrating their freedom from slavery.

Guyana Times caught up with several of the organisational bodies present at the event, including the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA), to gain insight into their efforts to keep African traditions alive.

One of the speakers, Denise Murray, offered deep historical insight into the origins and legacy of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, highlighting the brutal journey of African people – many from West Africa – who were brought to the Americas and the Caribbean under horrific conditions.
She recalled her own experience visiting Ghana, where she had the opportunity to see actual slave ships and retrace the route many enslaved Africans had taken.
“They were brutally treated; many were lynched, especially in places like the United States (US). Those who survived the journey were placed on plantations to work –whether in farming, reaping or particularly in cane fields, which became significant in countries like Guyana.”
Denise also pointed out that the enslaved were stripped of their identity – not only through name changes but also by being forced to wear the clothing of their enslavers instead of traditional African garments.
“They didn’t have work clothes like we do today, They had to work in the clothes given to them, and these were not traditional garbs. Today, it’s significant that we’ve returned to wearing African attire – reclaiming a part of what was taken.”
She emphasised the importance of acknowledging the regions from which many Africans were taken – countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, Togo, Benin, Cameroon, and Gabon – and how their descendants now live across the world, including in Jamaica, Haiti, and Guyana.
“We are them,” she stated firmly, speaking of the deep ancestral ties.
“The strength of our people continues today. No matter how they tried to erase us – by changing our names or our clothes – we remain spiritually and physically strong. These were people who endured tremendous pain, yet they survived. They were treated badly, ostracised and put down… and still, they made it through. Today, they are our heroes and heroines and we must carry on their legacy.”
Matthew Daymon, a volunteer at the ACDA booth, shared insight into the organisation’s long-standing role in preserving and promoting African heritage among Guyanese citizens. He noted that ACDA has been undertaking these initiatives for 32 consecutive years.
“We really focus on bringing African culture to Guyanese people, because sometimes we tend to drift away from our roots. Through our displays – from history to cultural artifacts – we educate the public about our ancestry, from slavery right up to modern cultural developments.”
He added that volunteers – like himself – come from all over to support the initiative. When asked about the impact of events like these, Matthew stressed the importance of reaching the youth.
“Young children in Guyana often don’t know much about their roots or African culture. Bringing this knowledge to them can help shape their identity and personality. It’s important they understand where they come from.”
Elsewhere in the park, one family took the opportunity to launch a book on Emancipation Day, aiming to highlight the significance of the occasion. They shared that this initiative was part of their 2025 family tradition.
“Our goal is to help people truly understand the meaning of the holiday,” a family member explained.
Another extended family came out in full force, proudly dressed in matching outfits to represent their cultural pride.
“Well, I think they should come out and enjoy the vibes – and unite and enjoy themselves,” one family member shared.