A poetry and critical essay writing competition as part of activities to observe the Commemoration of the 250th Anniversary of Freedom at Nottingham Estate, Long Look, has been launched. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Long Look, whether as an estate or a village, has been in existence for over 300 years, since 1713. Photo: Internet Source/Facebook

The competition is being held under the theme “Self-manumission: The Long Look Free People and 250 years of legacy,” and therefore this competition invites the community to reflect on heritage, resistance, freedom and legacy through the creativity of poetry and the analysis and interpretation of the critical essay. Photo: VINO/File

The competition is being held under the theme 'Self-manumission: The Long Look Free People and 250 years of legacy', and invites the community to reflect on heritage, resistance, freedom and legacy through the creativity of poetry and the analysis and interpretation of the critical essay.

Several commemorative activities 

Premier and Minister of Finance Honourable Dr Natalio D.  Wheatley, who is also Representative for the Seventh District, stated, “I am pleased at the integration of a poetry and critical essay writing competition into the activities celebrating and commemorating 250 years of freedom for the Long Look Free People, as they were known.”

The Premier added, “The fact that the 30th of June has been declared a national holiday indicates the national significance of this commemoration. In addition to our celebratory activities, the later launch of a publication regarding the history of Long Look will ensure that this unique and defining heritage will be available for educational purposes. This poetry and critical essay writing competition will also highlight the participation of our young people in these commemorative activities.”

Important for young people to know their heritage

According to a press release, Long Look, whether as an estate or a village, has been in existence for over 300 years, since 1713, and in its various stages, Long Look and the Long Look Free People, since 1776, have contributed significantly to the heritage of the Virgin Islands and continue to serve as a beacon of hope.

Coordinator of the Long Look 250th Commemorative Committee, Mrs Bernadine A. Louis, stated, “It is very important for everyone, and especially young people, to engage in serious reflection on matters related to heritage. This poetry and critical essay writing competition asks for creative and analytical reflection on the legacy that the Long Look Free People created for future generations across the Virgin Islands. We are looking forward to reading every entry.”