The Antigua and Barbuda Progressive Society, Inc., established in Harlem, New
York City, is this month celebrating its 89 years of service to the homeland of
Antigua and Barbuda and the Harlem community.
“We honor those brave 22 Antiguans for their benevolence and love as we
continue to promote their principles of Love, Faith, Hope and Charity at this
“Lighthouse in Harlem”,” current ABPS President Arize Lee said at a ceremony
held in Harlem over the weekend to mark the occasion as well as to celebrate the
contributions of two outstanding former members of the society who recently
passed.
“On June 24th, 2022, we honored our founder Bishop James P. Roberts Sr, as this
block where the early members purchased this headquarters, was officially co-
named – The Bishop James P. Roberts Sr. Way. The legacy lives on!
“Today, we honor two tenacious Antiguan women that were committed to the
longevity of the Antigua and Barbuda Progressive Society. Their tenacity is a
diamond quality, not easily found, and it is the tenacious people that shape this
world,” Lee stated.
The first floor of the Antigua House building, located at 12W 122 Street in Harlem
has been named in honour of the two women. “They were movers, undeterred by
problems and fixated on solutions. Their commitment to their cause was iron and
emboldened people around them, like me, and other members of the organization
to persevere with the legacy of ABPS,” Lee added.
One of the women being honoured, Margaret Maynard, was the oldest member
with the most years in the organization before she passed. She is said to have
attended almost every general membership meeting and participated in events
when her health permitted.
The second honouree, Maria "Roz" Olatunji was said to be a powerful ABPS
member, who spearheaded the organization at a very critical point in its history and
made huge sacrifices for the society’s longevity. “She was the only member to
hold all five positions of the Board: President, Vice President, Chief Financial
Officer, Financial Secretary and Recording Secretary. Everyone recalls her
dedication to excellence and the big vision she had for our charity,” according to
President Lee.
Several government officials based in NYC at the Antigua and Barbuda mission as
well as the tourist office were in attendance at the black-tie affair.
