July 31, 2013
Few support Portland Emancipation Vigil
PORTLAND, Jamaica — Few people attended the Emancipation Vigil at the Port Antonio Square Wednesday night as messages were read and the traditional Abeng blown by Maroon Joel Bernard at midnight.
The Abeng is an instrument originally used by the Maroons for communication and to celebrate their freedom after wars with the British.
Cultural items at the weakly supported event Wednesday were presented by the National Cultural Group for the Blind performing a cadre of folk songs, Breastworks Kumina Group, Turbo Plastic and Prestige band closed the proceedings with a variety of gospel and old hit songs.
A proclamation was read by senior Justice of the Peace for Portland Hugh Perry.
