Minister John Calls for Cultural Revival as Heritage Month Activities Begin 

By S.Browne. Updated 1:56 p.m.,Friday, February 27, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

Minister of National Heritage, Shevern John, has called on Vincentians to reconnect with and take pride in their cultural roots as National Heroes’ and Heritage Month 2026 gets underway.

“I really want our people to get back to that place, where we appreciate who we are, where we take ownership of who we are… And some people are Garifuna. So, wherever you fit in, we are indigenous people. And be proud of that indigenous race. Wherever you fit,” Minister John stated.

She further reflected that “we have lost that in a way. Especially our indigenous people… we don’t have a specific language… our dress was lost, our dress code, the way we eat, you know, basic things. Over the years, it has gained some traction, and I am grateful for that. But if you don’t feel a part of it, you are basically lost.”

According to Minister John, Heritage Month provides an opportunity for Vincentians to celebrate, reflect upon, and promote their cultural traditions. She said the month of activities will begin with a Heritage Market and Prayer Rally at Joseph Chatoyer National Park in Rabacca, starting at 3 p.m. on March 1st, 2026. The event will blend cultural expression and spiritual reflection, reinforcing the themes of identity and national pride.

The Minister said the Heritage Market and Prayer Rally will include prayers and singing, among other faith-based expressions. Craft and food items will be on sale, and there will be activities for children, with an atmosphere suited for families. She urged the public to support the first event of National Heritage Month.

Minister John disclosed that the indigenous peoples of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will host a cultural exhibition on March 7th, 2026, in London, Sandy Bay. Later in the month, her Ministry will host a Heritage Market on Friday, March 27th, 2026, and Saturday, March 28th, 2026, at the Ministerial Car Park, commonly known as the post office building.

Friday’s Heritage Market will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday’s from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Minister John revealed that Friday’s event “will be honoured by the presence of Royal Highness, our Carib Queen, out of Dominica.” Patrons will enjoy local foods, and “the artisans will once again have that opportunity to showcase their craftsmanship and their talent,” she added.

She further noted that on Saturday, March 28th, 2026, there will be a cruise ship call at Port Kingston, providing tourists an opportunity to experience what St Vincent and the Grenadines has to offer.

Minister John also reminded the public of the Obelisk Ceremony, National Heroes Day celebrations in Greiggs and Fancy on March 14th, 2026, and the Garifuna Heritage Foundation Garifuna Conference. “And again, they will have their pilgrimage to Balliceaux… that’s a sacred ground for Garifuna people. So that pilgrimage will be on March 15th, 2026,” she stated.

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This information was sourced from a press release sent to us by the Agency for Public Information.