Prime Minister Harris Launches History And Heritage Month 2016

(ZIZ News) — “Strengthening Our Commitment To Preserving Our Heritage: Our Arts, Archives And Marine Environment” is the theme this year as the Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park Secretariat, the Nevis Historical and Conservation Society and the St. Kitts National Trust observe, History and Heritage Month.

In declaring the month open, Prime Minister Dr. Hon. Timothy Harris praised the organizers for expanding their efforts to make the event possible.

“Now in its 10th year, History and Heritage Month – which was formerly observed as a week of activities – is an ideal opportunity for us, as a relatively young nation, to take stock of where we came from, our current status, and our future ambitions – be they individual or collective,” he said.

Prime Minister Harris also explained the importance of understanding and embracing our history.

“As we ponder the rich past of St. Kitts and Nevis, we must also take stock of the cultural and ethnic influences that have helped to not only define us, but also aided in colouring the cultural complexity of our nation that is evident in our art forms, our food, our customs and conventions, and our oral traditions,” he said.

He noted that in doing so, “we would come to acknowledge the role played by other European immigrants such as the French and Portuguese who would have contributed to development of agriculture and small business development in St. Kitts and Nevis.”

History and Heritage Month promotes greater awareness and understanding of, and deeper appreciation for the history and culture of St. Kitts and Nevis. The month-long observance officially begins on February 1.