As Saint Vincent and the Grenadines prepares to commemorate May 21 as Spiritual Baptist Liberation Day, the Department of Culture has launched a week of activities to honour this historic occasion.
Speaking at the launch event on Tuesday, Director of Culture Maxine Browne reaffirmed the government’s commitment to cultural inclusion, national unity, and the celebration of Vincentian heritage.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Dr. Tamira Browne, highlighted the historical importance of the new holiday, describing it as a milestone for recognizing a community that has long served as a cornerstone of the nation’s spiritual and cultural identity.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is now the second Caribbean nation to declare a National Holiday for the Spiritual Baptist Faith. The historic Bill was passed unanimously in Parliament on August 27, 2024, with bipartisan support.
The Shakerism Prohibition Ordinance of October 1, 1912, had outlawed the religion under colonial rule, leading to decades of persecution. It wasn’t until March 22, 1965, that the E.T. Joshua-led Legislative Council repealed the law through Ordinance No. 7 of 1965.
Nevertheless, May 21, 1951 has always held special significance for Spiritual Baptists. On that date, they won a landmark court case, securing their right to worship, with representation by former Premier Hon. Robert Milton Cato. Since then, the day has been observed within the faith as Liberation Day.
This year’s celebrations mark the first official national recognition of May 21 as a public holiday.
