An event titled Our Caribbean People’s Journey to Freedom wrapped up July 31 in Taipei City, celebrating the shared commitment to democracy and human rights of Taiwan and its diplomatic allies in the region.
Organized by the embassies of Belize, Haiti, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the inaugural event marked the 216th anniversary since chattel slavery officially ended in Haiti and 186th anniversary in the other four countries.
Featuring traditional dances, poetry recitals and musical performances, it reflected on the paths Caribbean nations have taken to achieve freedom and democracy, the MOFA said
Miguel Li-jey Tsao, vice minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the celebration was testament to the strong friendship between Taiwan and its allies, with the Caribbean journey to freedom serving as an inspiration for people around the world.
For years the country’s Caribbean allies have showcased the beauty of their diverse cultures through events in Taiwan such as food exhibitions and lively concerts, Tsao said, adding that these activities have helped transcend borders and brought people closer together.
In her opening remarks, St. Kitts and Nevis Ambassador Jasmine Huggins said the history of the Caribbean community was a story of uncommon courage built on blood, sweat and tears. She stated her belief that the event will help the people of Taiwan better understand the five countries’ aspirations for the future.
In response, St. Vincent and the Grenadines Ambassador Andrea Bowman said people in the Caribbean have worked tirelessly to revise, reconstruct and retell their history to ensure it is not forgotten by future generations. The Taipei event shows these efforts have been successful, creating a shared heritage that is greater than any one individual, she added. (SFC-E)
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