In his Emancipation Day address, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has called on Saint Lucians to honour their heritage by rising above the lingering effects of slavery, denouncing the “self-hate” and inferiority complex that continues to harm progress and unity within the society. The Prime Minister’s wide-ranging address touched on education, social support, international relations, and the urgent need for cultural reawakening, marking 191 years since the abolition of slavery in Saint Lucia.
Addressing the nation, Pierre declared that while much progress has been made since emancipation, the psychological trauma imposed on African ancestors persists across generations and continues to impede the advancement of some Saint Lucians. “We must not allow any group that still does not value and respect their history and heritage to distract us from the immense strides that have been made in reassuring our people that they are as good as any,” Pierre stated.
One of the most pointed moments in the address was his rebuke of the opposition and its supporters over their treatment of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, who recently visited Saint Lucia. Pierre described the political protest against the President’s visit as “shameful and disgraceful,” and an example of “the harmful effects of the legacy of slavery: self-hate and a readiness to accept African people and their descendants as inferior.” He stressed that had the visiting Head of State been from a non-African country, the response from critics would likely have been more respectful.
He went on to reaffirm Saint Lucia’s commitment to strengthening economic, social, and cultural ties with Nigeria, praising the signing of multiple memoranda of understanding during the visit. “The government and people of Saint Lucia have been honoured by the visit of your President,” Pierre said, addressing Nigerians directly. “We look forward to establishing and deepening our ties.”
Turning to domestic policy, Pierre highlighted his administration’s social support measures aimed at empowering the vulnerable, closing inequality gaps, and building national pride. Citing the athletic triumphs of Julien Alfred, the Prime Minister framed her Olympic medals as symbols of self-confidence and inspiration, underscoring his government’s commitment to enabling Saint Lucians to achieve their fullest potential.
On education, Pierre announced the introduction of African studies in Saint Lucia’s secondary school curriculum, stating that the omission of African history, literature, music, and philosophy has deprived students of identity and cultural grounding. “The absence of contributions from African civilisation and the thinking of African philosophers in our school system is a gap that needs to be filled,” he said, noting that a consultant has been engaged to develop the curriculum framework, which will include teacher training and a phased implementation plan.
Reflecting on history, Pierre called for the transformation of the Middle Passage from a site of suffering into a “bridge for reconnection.” He emphasized recent gains in Africa-Caribbean partnerships, referencing his participation in the 2025 AfriCaribbean Trade & Investment Forum in Grenada. With Africa’s population projected to grow to 1.5 billion by 2050, he said, “We must position ourselves to make the most of it,” highlighting trade, investment, education, technology, and tourism as critical areas for collaboration.
Closing with a solemn call to the youth, Pierre addressed the ongoing issue of gang violence and the need for respect for human life. “The violence and brutality of slavery have been abolished,” he said. “Let us not return to killings and brutality as a means of settling conflict.” He urged young people to reject self-doubt, embrace their worth, and become productive citizens, emphasizing that respect for human dignity, regardless of race, creed or gender, is essential to national progress.
Pierre’s address stood as both a tribute to the resilience of African ancestors and a renewed call for unity, cultural pride, and transformation, as Saint Lucia forges ahead in reclaiming its identity and building stronger regional and global partnerships.
