This year, Emancipation Day has been designated as a government holiday by the Public Entity Saba, which means it is officially observed as a holiday for civil servants. This continues to mark an important step in the process toward its formal recognition as a public holiday for the entire island. Work is ongoing to complete the official process, with the intention that Emancipation Day will be added to the permanent list of recognized holidays in the coming years.
We are proud to note that several businesses on the island have already endorsed the holiday and given their employees the day off. We commend these efforts and encourage others to follow their example as a gesture of solidarity, respect, and historical awareness. Businesses that wish to join in giving their employees the day off in honor of the commemoration are encouraged to do so and to sign an endorsement form in support of the initiative.
In addition, both the primary and secondary schools on the island have indicated they will be closed on July 1st. This ensures that students not only have the opportunity to participate in the celebration, but can also be present at the commemoration and engage meaningfully with this pivotal moment in our shared history.
As part of the day’s events, a Youth Forum will be held at 9:00 AM at the Eugenius Johnson Center, inviting young people and community members to reflect on Saba’s past and future. Panelists will share personal stories or reflections related to local history, community values, or moments that shaped Saba’s identity. They will also speak to what they feel is important for their generation to remember and carry forward. The forum offers a meaningful space for intergenerational learning and dialogue in keeping with this year’s theme.
The theme, “We Know Because They Spoke: Generations Remember,” highlights the importance of transgenerational knowledge transfer. It pays tribute to the resilience and wisdom of those who came before us and emphasizes the power of remembering, speaking truth, and passing on stories that shape identity and inspire pride.
The afternoon celebration will feature keynote speaker Ms. Nathania Engelhardt from Curaçao, cultural performances by students of the Sacred Heart School, the Saba Comprehensive School, Child Focus Foundation, and the Saba Life Center, along with live music from a string band from St. Maarten. Traditional snacks and refreshments will also be served.
The public is warmly invited to join us as we honor the past and celebrate a future rooted in unity, dignity, and remembrance.
