The Division of Culture is hosting a series of activities to commemorate the legacy of Shirley Chisholm, the first black woman to be elected to the United States Congress.
Chisholm, who was of Barbadian heritage, was born on November 30, 1924 and passed away on January 1, 2005 at the age of 80.
To celebrate what would have been her 100th birthday, the Division of Culture has launched the Shirley Chisholm Project- Celebrating Shirley-100 years in her honour.
During a media launch at the ministry’s Sky Mall, Haggatt Hall office on Friday, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Culture Senator Dr Shantal Munro-Knight said Chisholm’s legacy was an important marker for women’s political participation, strength and resilience.
She said Chisholm’s contributions are particularly relevant at this time in light of the ongoing race between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris for the US presidency.
“That legacy of political representation was not only one that was held within the high echelons of public service, but she used her voice and advocacy for others as well. It is an important lesson for us, and particularly at a time when as a society we need to have strong images and strong stories of black women – our colour, our heritage – who have achieved, as an example for what other young women can achieve,” Munro-Knight said, adding that the commemoration celebration was part of a wider programme aimed at educating the public about nation builders.
The activities, which run from September to November, include a service book collection, a lecture discussion and a genealogy archive market and exhibition.
An arts competition is also among the activities. Those interested are required to submit an artistic entry – including dance, music, essays and fine art – to the ministry by October 31.
On October 9, there will be the signing of a Sister City agreement between Bridgetown and New York; and on November 1, the national lighting ceremony will be expanded. The lights in Freedom Tower in Manhattan will be changed to blue and Shirley Chisholm Primary in Vauxhall, Christ Church will also be lit. (SZB)
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