The St. Thomas Parish Independence Committee (PIC) hosted a dynamic Clement Payne Lecture and Storytelling Evening over the weekend, bringing together a full house at the Evening Light Pentecostal Church in Arch Hall for a celebration of one of Barbados’ most transformative National Heroes.
Organised under the banner of the Season of Emancipation by the Division of Culture within the Prime Minister’s Office, the event was part of a wider national initiative that encourages each parish to honour Barbados’ National Heroes. The St. Thomas PIC paid homage to The Right Excellent Clement Payne, whose pioneering efforts in labour rights and social justice sparked the 1937 rebellion and laid the groundwork for modern Barbadian democracy.
The evening blended education and entertainment, with students, residents and community leaders contributing through performances of poetry, music, dance, and dramatic re-enactments. The programme opened with a prayer by Amariah Atherley of Lester Vaughan School and a welcome from the Parish Ambassadors, Ms.Amyah Cox and Mr.Christian Atherley.
Among the standout presentations was Dear Clement Payne, an emotional letter penned and read by Kaneil Mayers of Holy Innocents’ Primary School. The Sharon Dancers delivered a moving tribute through choreography, while the Welches Beavers presented Clement’s Climb, a creative interpretation of Payne’s struggles and triumphs. A reenactment of the 1937 Riots by community members brought historical events vividly to life and Lisa Johnson, a respected community builder, offered a stirring musical tribute.
Dr. Cleve Scott, lecturer at the University of the West Indies, delivered the keynote address and underscored Clement Payne’s legacy and its continued relevance in today’s society.
Chairperson of the St. Thomas PIC, Petra Ramsay-Rollock, reflected on the event’s purpose: “Clement Payne was an advocate for the people. His life spoke volumes, through resistance, empowerment through knowledge and organised activism. We planted the seed of leadership and what it means to be an advocate in the hearts of the people of St. Thomas.”
The evening concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Victoria Thorne-Forte and the presentation of tokens to all participants. (PR)
