Barbadians are being urged to take an active role in preserving and safeguarding the island’s heritage while passing on core values to future generations.
The appeal came from Senior Cultural Policy and Research Officer Sheron Johnson during the Heritage Month service at James Street Methodist Church on Sunday, where she pointed out that the strength of Barbados was rooted not in uniformity but in unity, mutual respect and understanding.
Addressing the congregation, Johnson said Heritage Month offered an opportunity for Barbadians to reflect on the legacy that has shaped the nation.
“Though we may come from different backgrounds, cultures, and denominations, we are united by a common story. Our shared heritage reminds us that the strength of a country is not found in uniformity but in unity,” she said.
“Heritage therefore lives in our traditions, our language, our music, our customs, and in the faith that has sustained generations before us.”
Johnson explained that Heritage Month was conceptualised about 14 years ago to give heritage greater visibility, while also highlighting the work being done to preserve and protect the country’s cultural legacy.
“We recognise that heritage needed to be practised and safeguarded and preserved every day. This month gives us time to pause, to reflect, to gather our thoughts, and it also serves to promote the work programmes and projects that are going on within our ministry and our stakeholders and give them greater impetus and clarity,” she said.
She stressed that Heritage Month was also a celebration of the bonds shared by all Barbadians regardless of their differences.
The cultural officer also highlighted the role religion and faith communities have played in shaping Barbados’ development over the years.
“It also means appreciating the contributions of various faith communities that have worked to promote justice, peace, education, and service. By respecting one another’s beliefs, we strengthen the bonds that hold our community together.”
Johnson further reminded Barbadians that heritage was not merely inherited from previous generations but must be actively protected and passed on.
The values of faith, integrity, kindness, respect, and love for neighbour must be intentionally passed on to future generations.”
Johnson also commended the James Street Methodist Church for its efforts in preserving the memory of National Hero The Right Excellent Sarah Ann Gill.
She also applauded the church for its restoration work on the Hurst Memorial Chapel and for its continued maintenance of Gill’s gravesite.
She noted that one of the first commemorative plaques under the Barbados National Register was installed last December at the site of Gill’s former home.
Johnson stressed the importance of protecting cultural and historical assets before they are lost.
“It is important that as a nation we preserve historical sites, our languages, traditions, and customs before they disappear. Most importantly, we must teach future generations that heritage is something to cherish, not something to forget.”
She also referenced remarks made by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Pan-African Affairs and Heritage, Trevor Prescod, at the launch of Heritage Month last week, noting his call for young people to understand their identity and heritage.
Johnson encouraged Barbadians to use Heritage Month as an opportunity to celebrate the nation’s past while helping to shape its future.
“Let us honour the faith of our ancestors, cherish the heritage of our nation, and commit ourselves to building a society where every person is valued, respected, and encouraged to contribute their gifts for the common good.”
