Government Secures Land and Initial Funding for Buckley’s Uprising Monument

The 90th anniversary of the Buckley’s Uprising in St. Kitts and Nevis was marked by a significant announcement by Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew: the acquisition of land at Buckley’s for the construction of a permanent monument. This initiative, themed “Reflections after Ninety Years: The Buckley’s Uprising as a Catalyst for Change in the British West Indies,” seeks to honor the legacy of the 1935 uprising and the profound impact it had on the trajectory of labor rights and the eventual decolonization of the Caribbean region. The acquisition of the land, stretching from the main road to the Joseph N. France (JNF) General Hospital, signifies a tangible step towards preserving this crucial historical event and ensuring its continued relevance for future generations. The land will be officially owned by the Buckley’s Uprising Committee, empowering them to oversee the development and maintenance of the monument.

The government’s commitment to this project extends beyond the land acquisition. Prime Minister Drew announced an initial allocation of $100,000 to kickstart the preparatory work for the monument’s construction. This initial funding represents the first phase of a larger $1 million commitment by the government, demonstrating the importance they place on recognizing the sacrifices made by those who participated in the uprising. The monument is envisioned as more than just a historical marker; it is intended to serve as a constant reminder of the principles for which the protestors fought: justice, fair labor practices, and self-determination. It will stand as a testament to the resilience and determination of the men and women who challenged the existing power structures and paved the way for a more equitable future.

The Buckley’s Uprising, a pivotal moment in the history of St. Kitts and Nevis, holds significant weight within the broader context of Caribbean history. It represents a crucial turning point in the struggle against colonial rule and the fight for improved working conditions for laborers. The uprising, born out of the oppressive conditions faced by workers on sugar plantations, sparked a wave of protests and demonstrations across the British West Indies, ultimately contributing to the dismantling of the colonial system and the rise of self-governance in the region. The monument, therefore, will not only honor a local event but also symbolize a broader regional struggle for liberation.

Prime Minister Drew, in his address, emphasized the importance of remembering the principles that fueled the uprising – principles that continue to resonate today. He underscored that the fight for complete liberation is an ongoing process, and true victory will be achieved when the people of St. Kitts and Nevis fully control their destiny. This statement highlights the enduring relevance of the uprising and connects the historical struggle with contemporary issues of self-determination and social justice. The monument is intended to be not just a memorial to the past, but a source of inspiration for the future, encouraging continued engagement in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the contributions of various groups in keeping the memory of the Buckley’s Uprising alive. He specifically mentioned the Rastafari movement and the St. Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union, recognizing their continued efforts to ensure that the significance of the uprising is not forgotten. This recognition highlights the collective responsibility in preserving historical memory and underscores the role these organizations play in keeping the spirit of the uprising alive within the community. The collaborative nature of this project further emphasizes its importance as a shared national endeavor.

The Buckley’s Uprising Monument Project now transitions from a conceptual idea to a concrete reality. With the secured land and the government’s financial backing, the Buckley’s Uprising Committee is poised to embark on the planning and preparatory phases of the project. This will involve detailed design work, community consultations, and logistical arrangements to ensure the creation of a monument that appropriately reflects the historical significance of the uprising. The monument is anticipated to become a landmark of national and regional importance, serving as a place of reflection, remembrance, and inspiration for generations to come. It will stand as a powerful symbol of the struggle for justice, equality, and self-determination, reminding all who visit of the sacrifices made and the progress achieved on the path to freedom.