In a landmark decision reflecting both historical justice and national unity, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has declared May 21st a National Holiday to celebrate the Spiritual Baptist Faith. The historic bill, passed unanimously in Parliament, marks only the second time in the Caribbean that such an honor has been accorded to a religious group.

The bill’s passage, announced on Tuesday, was met with widespread approval from both sides of the House of Assembly. Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, who championed the initiative, emphasized the importance of acknowledging and rectifying the long history of persecution endured by Spiritual Baptists.

The Prime Minister said that the persecution suffered by Spiritual Baptists for more than fifty years during colonialism has long been an injustice. He noted that this declaration is not only about righting a historic wrong but also about celebrating and recognizing the resilience and cultural contributions of the Spiritual Baptist community.

The Spiritual Baptist Faith, which has deep roots in the Caribbean, faced severe repression under colonial rule. On October 1, 1912, the colonial government enacted the Shakerism Prohibition Ordinance, effectively outlawing the practice of the Spiritual Baptist religion and leading to widespread persecution of its adherents.

The discriminatory law remained in place until March 22, 1965, when the E. T. Joshua-led Legislative Council repealed the ordinance through Ordinance Number 7 of 1965. However, the Spiritual Baptist community had already begun commemorating their struggles and victories on May 21, 1951, known as Liberation Day, following a significant court case victory led by Former Premier Robert Milton Cato.

Taiwan National Day Celebration

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here