Prime Minister Drew Dedicates Marcus Garvey Port Marker at Pump Bay

The sun-drenched shores of Pump Bay, St. Kitts, bore witness to a poignant ceremony on August 6, 2025, as the nation honored the indelible legacy of Marcus Mosiah Garvey, a towering figure in the Pan-African movement. Nearly nine decades after Garvey first set foot on this very ground, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew unveiled a commemorative port marker and memorial park, solidifying Pump Bay’s place in history as a site of profound cultural and political significance. The event, orchestrated by the St. Kitts and Nevis National Commission for UNESCO and the Routes of Enslaved Peoples Committee, served as a powerful reminder of Garvey’s enduring impact on the consciousness of Black communities worldwide. The ceremony gathered dignitaries, descendants of Garvey, local community members, and cultural performers, all united in their reverence for the visionary leader. Notably present was Dr. Julius Garvey, son of Marcus Garvey, who delivered a moving personal tribute to his father.

Prime Minister Drew’s address resonated with the historical weight of the occasion, emphasizing the transformative nature of Garvey’s 1937 visit. He depicted Garvey’s arrival not as a conquering hero, but as a messenger of hope and self-reliance, arriving aboard the SS Lady Nelson to sow the seeds of empowerment within the hearts of the Kittitian people. Drew highlighted the profound impact of Garvey’s message, a message that resonated deeply within a community yearning for self-determination and recognition of their inherent worth. The Prime Minister masterfully painted a picture of Garvey as a catalyst for change, inspiring a renewed sense of pride and possibility within a people who had long endured the yoke of colonialism. This historical context enriched the unveiling of the memorial, transforming it from a mere commemoration into a vibrant testament to the enduring power of Garvey’s philosophy.

The Prime Minister’s words underscored the global reach of Garvey’s influence, positioning him as a champion of Black liberation whose teachings continue to resonate in contemporary struggles for justice and equality. He drew a direct line from Garvey’s potent call for self-reliance – “uplift ourselves by ourselves” – to the ongoing efforts of the nation and the wider Caribbean region to build a more equitable and prosperous future. This connection emphasized the enduring relevance of Garvey’s philosophy, demonstrating how his ideas continue to inspire and guide the pursuit of social and economic justice. The memorial at Pump Bay was thus framed not only as a tribute to a historical figure, but also as a symbolic torch, illuminating the path forward for future generations.

The choice of Pump Bay as the site for this memorial carries a multi-layered significance. It represents not just the point of Garvey’s arrival, but also a powerful symbol of community resilience and resistance. The fact that Garvey’s visit was hosted by Mr. Arnold McIntosh in Sandy Point further underscores the grassroots nature of his impact, demonstrating how his message resonated deeply within local communities. The Prime Minister’s speech effectively wove these historical threads together, transforming Pump Bay into a living embodiment of Garvey’s enduring influence.

The memorial itself stands as a physical manifestation of Garvey’s legacy, serving as a constant reminder of his profound contribution to the Pan-African movement. It serves as a focal point for reflection on the historical struggles for Black liberation and a source of inspiration for future generations to continue the fight for justice and equality. The park, carefully designed and maintained, offers a serene space for contemplation, allowing visitors to connect with the historical significance of the location and to reflect on the enduring relevance of Garvey’s message. The presence of Dr. Julius Garvey added a deeply personal dimension to the ceremony, underscoring the familial connection to this historical legacy.

The unveiling of the Marcus Garvey memorial park and port marker at Pump Bay represents more than just a commemorative act; it symbolizes the enduring power of ideas to shape history and inspire future generations. It is a testament to the unwavering spirit of a people determined to forge their own destiny and a powerful reminder of the vital role that figures like Marcus Garvey played in shaping the course of history. The event serves as a call to action, urging continued vigilance in the fight for social justice and equality, and solidifies Pump Bay’s place not just as a historical landmark, but as a living embodiment of the ongoing struggle for liberation and self-determination. The memorial stands as a symbol of hope, reminding us of the power of unity and the enduring legacy of those who dared to dream of a better world.