The Barbados Landship is now officially inscribed on the UNESCO 2003 Convention List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Culture, Senator Dr Shantal Munro-Knight, was among those present when the announcement was made on Tuesday, December 9, during the 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in New Delhi, India.
She described the recognition as a “historic moment for Barbados,” adding that the recognition of the Barbados Landship affirmed not only its cultural significance, but also its enduring value as a living expression of Barbadian identity.
The Minister reasoned that safeguarding the Barbados Landship was important especially in an era where modernisation, shifting community structures, and the loss of elder knowledge presented real challenges to its survival.
“In response, the Government of Barbados, together with the Barbados Landship Association, has intensified efforts to document, revitalise, and transmit the tradition.”
“We have already implemented our safeguarding plan, expanding youth engagement by incorporating Landship programmes into schools and communities and supporting training programmes that ensure the knowledge, rituals, and artistic expressions of the Barbados Landship are transmitted. Just as importantly, we remain committed to empowering the communities and knowledge bearers who are the custodians of this heritage,” Senator Munro-Knight stated.
She said for the last 160 years, the Landship has stood as a unique symbol of community and today, it remains a powerful representation of unity, pride, service, and mutual support, all of which continue to guide Barbadian society.
“UNESCO’s recognition today gives renewed strength to these efforts. It affirms that the Barbados Landship is not only a national treasure, but part of a shared heritage of humanity,” the Minister added.
Meanwhile, President of the Barbados Landship Association (BLA), Wayne Worrell, said the inscription would ensure that the traditions, practices and expressions of the Barbados Landship Association will be safeguarded and transmitted for generations to come.
The delegation returns to the island tomorrow, Friday, December 12, around 3:00 p.m. to a welcome event outside the Arrivals Hall at the Grantley Adams International Airport.
The post Barbados Landship inscribed on UNESCO Heritage List appeared first on Barbados Today.