Africa-CARICOM Day is a little more than a week away, but already the Antigua
and Barbuda Reparation Support Commission (ABRSC) has finalized plans to
mark the occasion.
In a statement, the ABRSC has announced its commemorative activities for Africa-
CARICOM Day 2023. This special occasion will be marked by a series of events
aimed at celebrating the building of strong ties between Africa and CARICOM. At
the heart of these celebrations is the Africa-CARICOM Summit scheduled for
September 7th, which seeks to foster enhanced social and economic connections
between these two global communities.
During the inaugural Africa/CARICOM Summit held on September 7th, 2021,
CARICOM Heads made a momentous decision to institutionalize collaboration
between Africa, CARICOM, and the diaspora. This was achieved through the
establishment of Africa-CARICOM Day on September 7th each year, the creation
of a dedicated Secretariat/Structure, and the organization of annual Africa-
CARICOM Summits. Member States were strongly encouraged to support this
initiative.
In line with this important initiative, the Antigua and Barbuda Reparations Support
Commission (ABRSC) will have the honour of hosting Cyndi Marshall, known by
her stage name Cyndi Celeste, a prominent Barbadian reparations activist. Ms.
Marshall will participate in a compelling panel discussion titled 'YOUTH AND
REPARATIONS,' set to be held on September 7th, 2023. This dynamic
conversation will feature youth leaders engaging in a discourse on reparations and
reparatory justice, aligning with CARICOM's efforts to deepen relations with the
African Union.
Cyndi Marshall, a distinguished spoken word poet, writer, and creative
entrepreneur, is recognized for her commitment to arts activism and language
advocacy. Through her performance poetry and literary contributions, she fosters
vital discussions on matters of identity and societal issues. An acclaimed poet, Ms.
Marshall has garnered accolades, including the NIFCA award, and has represented
Barbados on international platforms such as the Women of the World Poetry Slam
in Texas, the 40th Poetry Market in France, and the Vrystaat Arts Festival in South
Africa. Her literary works are featured in esteemed publications like the Caribbean
Writer literary journal and the ArtsEtc NIFCA Winning Words Anthology.
Following the panel discussion, an engaging evening of Creative Activism awaits,
where Marshall will collaborate with a collective of poets, artists, and musicians.
This event will illuminate the power of creative arts as a tool for driving positive
change.
Culminating the commemorative festivities is the debut of "Creative Voices," an
evening dedicated to poetry, spoken word, songs, and jazz music. The lineup
includes outstanding performers such as Kadeem Joseph, Khadijah Simon, Zahra
Airall, Glen Toussaint, Aisha Fayola, Michelle Toussaint, Kiyode Erasto, and
more. Notably, the acclaimed poet Cyndi Celeste from Barbados will also grace
the stage. This captivating event is set to take place on Friday, September 8th,
2023, at JULIE'S on Cross and Tanner Streets, commencing at 8 p.m.
A warm invitation is extended to the general public to attend the events hosted by
the ABRSC in commemorating Africa-CARICOM Day 2023 through both the
enlightening Youth Panel discussion and the vibrant Creative Voices. As shared by
the ABRSC, “Let us come together as Antigua and Barbuda celebrates the
enduring bonds between Africa and CARICOM.”
