Darrell: ‘Cup Match is far more than a cricket match’
A raft of events have been organised to mark the anniversary of emancipation in Bermuda on and off the cricket pitch.
Owen Darrell, the Minister of Tourism, Transport, Culture and Sport, said that while the island comes together to celebrate Cup Match every year, it was important to remember the history behind both Emancipation Day and Mary Prince Day.
Speaking in the House of Assembly, Mr Darrell said: “Cup Match is far more than a cricket match. It is a celebration of our history, our resilience and our shared identity as Bermudians.
“It reminds us of the bonds that unite us through heritage, pride and community. It is a time when families, friends, neighbours and even strangers come together to create lasting memories and strengthen the connections that make Bermuda such a special place.
“As we celebrate this year's Cup Match holiday, let us also take time to reflect on its deeper meaning. These holidays commemorate the struggles and sacrifices of those who came before us and honour Bermuda's journey from enslavement to freedom.”
Mr Darrell said that a host of events will be held to celebrate emancipation including the premiere of the documentary Black Enterprise in Bermuda: Trials, Tribulations, Triumphs.
He said the film, created for the Department of Culture by Marquedelle Rodriguez in collaboration with historian and researcher Meredith Ebbin, celebrates the ingenuity, resilience and achievements of Black Bermudians across generations.
Mr Darrell said: “Commemorating Emancipation is not solely about remembering the hardships of the past.
“It is also about recognising the extraordinary accomplishments of Black Bermudians, whose perseverance, talent and leadership have helped build the Bermuda we know today.
“It is also about carrying forward the values of freedom, equity and respect so that future generations inherit a more just and inclusive Bermuda.”
Other events in the Emancipation Commemoration calendar include a range of tours, a remembrance service at St Peter’s Church, an Open Mic Jam Session organised by the Chewstick Foundation and a presentation on Atlantic abolitionism.
Mr Darrell added that the Government would also continue to support the Annual Cup Match Classic, and had committed to support the 2026 host, Somerset Cricket Club, with $70,000 in funding.
Mr Darrell also noted the 28th Annual Mini Cup Match, to be held on July 24, with youth cricketers going head-to-head, and the Colts Cup Match on July 26.
You must be Registered or to post comment or to vote.
