Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, 20th January 2025 – The Government and people of Saint Kitts and Nevis extend heartfelt gratitude to President Joe Biden for the posthumous pardon of The Right Excellent Marcus Mosiah Garvey, as recently announced. This historic decision corrects a longstanding injustice and honours the indelible legacy of a man whose vision and advocacy transformed the lives of countless people across the world.
Marcus Garvey, a towering figure of Pan-Africanism and a fierce advocate for the empowerment of people of African descent, holds a unique connection to Saint Kitts and Nevis. In November 1937, he visited Basseterre, Saint Kitts and delivered a rousing address at the Mutual Improvement Society Hall, now a historic landmark on Lower Market Street. His words remain deeply relevant: “Your country can be no greater than yourselves. It is not God that makes the cities and towns. God gives you the land, but you build the cities. Your St. Kitts [and Nevis] will be no greater than your mindset.”
Garvey’s teachings continue to inspire and challenge us to embrace self-determination, solidarity, and progress. His contributions to the Caribbean, and the global Pan-African movement, laid the foundation for the empowerment of black communities worldwide.
Prime Minister Dr Terrance M Drew stated, “This pardon is a momentous acknowledgment of Marcus Garvey’s lifelong dedication to justice and equality. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of addressing historical wrongs and honouring those whose contributions have shaped our collective identity.”
The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis also extends warm congratulations to the Government and people of Jamaica, the birthplace of Marcus Garvey and the cradle of his revolutionary ideas. We share in their pride and joy as the world recognizes the extraordinary legacy of their national hero.
We further congratulate the family of Marcus Garvey, whose tireless advocacy has preserved his memory and brought us to this defining moment.
As we celebrate this historic pardon, Saint Kitts and Nevis reaffirms its commitment to the ideals Garvey championed—self-reliance, education, empowerment, and progress—as we continue to build a brighter and more equitable future.
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