Dear Editor,

The Caribbean has once again become the epicentre of a cultural and historical revolution.

The Jamaica Maroons, in partnership with the Global African Diaspora Kingdom (GADK), AIDO Network International, and key academic and cultural institutions, are making monumental strides to secure their legacy and inspire global recognition. The groundbreaking decision to establish a Maroon Institute at The University of the West Indies (UWI) cements their place in history and marks a turning point for indigenous peoples worldwide.

The 287th Accompong Festival, celebrated under the theme ‘Echoes of the Past, Blueprint for the Future’, brought together thousands of attendees, including cultural leaders, scholars, and dignitaries. This annual event, which honours Maroon heritage, was more than a celebration; it became a rallying cry for justice, preservation, and unity. Sponsored by UNESCO, the festival underscored the Maroons’ vital contributions to global cultural history and the pressing need to protect their heritage.

On January 7, 2024, a historic reconciliation meeting united the leaders of Jamaica’s four Maroon communities — Accompong Town, Charlestown, Moore Town, and Scott’s Hall. This pivotal gathering culminated in a transformative symposium held on January 9, 2025 at The UWI’s Mona campus. Graciously sponsored by The UWI and the Caribbean Reparations Commission (CRC), the event solidified the shared commitment to advancing the Maroon legacy.

The symposium welcomed a royal African delegation and featured a diverse array of influential voices. Her Royal Highness Queen Asianut Acom II, otherwise known as Dr Hilary Brown, president of the Global African Diaspora Kingdom, alongside Queen Mother Dr Chenzira Kahina Adeke Hajila, the AIDO ambassador-at-large, played instrumental roles in ensuring the event’s success.

Papa Paul Eganda, founder of AIDO Network International and the head of the Global African Kingdoms (GADK), delivered a stirring address, stating, “Nothing about the Maroons without the Maroons.” His message underscored the importance of Maroon agency in shaping their own narrative and advocating their rights on the global stage.

One of the symposium’s most celebrated figures was Professor Hilary Beckles, “Papa Osikol”, paramount chief. Renowned for his tireless work in reparatory justice, Professor Beckles has emerged as a transformative leader in global advocacy. As chairman of the CRC, vice chancellor of The UWI, and the recently appointed chancellor of the United Nations University, he has led groundbreaking initiatives to champion justice and empowerment for marginalised communities.

Professor Beckles’ vision for the Maroon Institute is both ambitious and inspiring. “Everything we need to know about the future can be found in the study of our past,” he remarked. He described the institute as a beacon of hope and a hub for education, research, and advocacy designed to honour the Maroons’ legacy and inspire future generations. He declared that we are all Maroons.

Queen Grace Eganda, secretary-general of AIDO Network International, also addressed the symposium, delivering an inspiring message grounded in scripture. Quoting Isaiah 58:12, she proclaimed, “You shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in.” Her words emphasized AIDO’s unwavering dedication to restorative justice, cultural preservation, and community empowerment.

Under the leadership of Papa Eganda, AIDO has emerged as a global leader in cultural diplomacy. By fostering cross-continental dialogue and strengthening connections between the Maroons and the broader African Diaspora, AIDO has amplified its efforts towards achieving reparatory justice and safeguarding their heritage for future generations.

The establishment of the Maroon Institute at The UWI represents a historic milestone. As a centre for global indigenous studies, the institute is envisioned to:

•Educate and empower Maroon and indigenous youth through leadership programmes.

•Serve as a repository for Maroon artifacts, oral histories, and cultural heritage.

•Foster international collaboration on reparatory justice, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation.

This initiative promises to not only preserve the Maroons’ rich history but also connect their struggles and triumphs to those of indigenous communities worldwide.

The Maroons’ remarkable journey — from resistance to resilience — is a powerful testament to unity, self-determination, and cultural pride. Their legacy, forged in the rugged hills of Jamaica, reverberates far beyond their borders, inspiring communities worldwide to pursue justice and recognition.

The collaboration between the Maroons, AIDO, UNESCO, The UWI, and CRC stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through shared vision and determination. This partnership reminds us that understanding and honouring history is essential to building a more inclusive and equitable future.

AIDO Network International, with its unwavering commitment to advocacy, cultural diplomacy, and restorative justice, continues to play a pivotal role in this transformative movement. Through its groundbreaking initiatives, AIDO is not only documenting history but actively shaping a brighter future for the Maroons and indigenous peoples across the globe.

AIDO Network International

info@aidonetwork.org