Barbados: Prince Charles acknowledges 'appalling' history of slavery as island becomes a republic
The Prince of Wales has formally acknowledged "the appalling atrocity
of slavery" in the Caribbean, saying "it forever stains our history" at
an event to mark Barbados becoming a republic.
Prince Charles was invited to speak at the transition ceremony formalising the Caribbean island's decision to remove the Queen as its head of state.
Speaking in front of a crowd in National Heroes Square in Bridgetown,
once known as Trafalgar Square, he said: "From the darkest days of our
past, and the appalling atrocity of slavery, which forever stains our
histories, the people of this island forged their path with
extraordinary fortitude.
"Emancipation, self-government and independence were your way-points.
Freedom, justice and self-determination have been your guides."
A 21-gun salute was fired just after midnight when the nation officially became a republic, marking a new chapter in the nation's history.
The prince, who described how "the creation of this republic offers a
new beginning", watched as the Queen's standard was lowered for the
final time.
He described how he felt "deeply touched" to be invited to the event,
held on the nation's 55th anniversary of independence from Britain, and
spoke of his great personal respect for the people of Barbados.
He added: "Tonight you write the next chapter of your nation's story,
adding to the treasury of past achievement, collective enterprise and
personal courage which already fill its pages.
A new chapter
"The creation of this republic
offers a new beginning, but it also marks a point on a continuum - a
milestone on the long road you have not only travelled but which you
have built."
In a message to the people of the Caribbean island,
the Queen sent her "good wishes for your happiness, peace and prosperity
in the future" and emphasised the importance of the "continuation of
the friendship" with the UK as she ceased to be their monarch.
Barbados' decision to remove the Queen as head of state will be
watched closely by other members of the Commonwealth, especially in the
Caribbean region.
Prince Charles' speech referenced the UK's close relationship with Barbados and a continuing partnership between the two nations.
"As
your constitutional status changes, it was important to me that I
should join you to reaffirm those things which do not change," Prince
Charles said.
"For example, the close and trusted partnership between Barbados and the
United Kingdom as vital members of the Commonwealth; our common
determination to defend the values we both cherish and to pursue the
goals we share; and the myriad connections between the people of our
countries - through which flow admiration and affection, co-operation
and opportunity - strengthening and enriching us all."
After a dazzling display of Barbadian dance and music, Sandra Mason was sworn in as Barbados' first ever president.
Prime Minister Mia Mottley, the leader of Barbados' republican movement, helped lead the ceremony.
Barbadian singer Rihanna also attended the event and was declared a national hero.
"May
you continue to shine like a diamond and bring honour to your nation by
your works, by your actions," Ms Mottley told Rihanna, a reference to
her 2012 chart-topping single Diamonds.
The transition ceremony was watched in-person by a large crowd, and broadcast online and on screens across the island.
