Common ground appears to have been reached between developers and concerned citizens over the construction of a national monument near the Enslaved Burial Ground at Newton Plantation in Christ Church, Barbados.
New measures, including a three-day period of quiet on-site, aim to preserve the sanctity of the burial ground while advancing plans to honor the memory of enslaved individuals through a dedicated memorial.
For months, historians, academics, spiritual leaders, and community members voiced concerns over the development, highlighting the absence of consultations and the potential impact on what is believed to be the largest communal enslaved burial ground in the Western Hemisphere. Nearby areas of archaeological importance, such as “The Negro Yard,” were also flagged as requiring protection.
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The concerned group launched a petition that has so far gathered 816 signatures, calling for greater transparency and inclusion in the project. Key demands include orientation sessions for construction workers and project leaders on the historical significance of the site, legislation to safeguard the burial ground, and the protection of the rights of those who view the space as sacred.
The International Association for Caribbean Archaeology (IACA) added its voice to the protest, urging an immediate pause in construction. IACA President Dr. Jay B. Haviser recommended a comprehensive assessment, mitigation measures, and the inclusion of local communities and religious groups in the planning process.
Responding to these concerns, the Barbados Tourism Investment Inc. (BTII)—the developer behind the project—has pledged to collaborate with key stakeholders to ensure the site’s sanctity is preserved.
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“BTII is working with the Barbados Museum and Historical Society (BMHS), faith-based groups, and professional organizations to implement several recommendations, including those raised by the IACA,” the agency said in a statement. It emphasized that no graves have been disturbed and noted that a geological survey is being conducted to guide archaeological mitigation efforts.
To acknowledge the site’s sacredness, construction of parts of the monument will be moved off-site during a designated quiet period from January 31 to February 2, 2025. During this time, workers will receive sensitization training, and faith-based groups and other stakeholders will be invited to honor the burial ground in accordance with their beliefs and customs.
Historians and faith leaders welcomed these steps. Historian Dr. Tara Innis of the University of the West Indies at Cave Hill remarked on the more inclusive approach, stating, “Things are moving in the right direction, and there seems to be a much more intentional effort to involve valued stakeholders, especially communities and the public.”
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John Hunte, former chairman of the Council of Spiritual Baptist Churches of Barbados, described the quiet period as “a first step in the right direction,” adding that it provides an opportunity for faith-based communities to engage in rituals of atonement and reflection.
The initiative is part of a broader plan announced in 2021 by Prime Minister Mia Mottley to establish a Barbados Heritage District. This district will include a monument, a museum, and a global research institute, aiming to commemorate the nearly 600 enslaved persons buried at Newton and reflect on the trans-Atlantic slave trade’s devastating legacy.
The monument, designed by renowned Ghanaian-British architect David Adjaye, will serve as a solemn reminder of the enslaved individuals who toiled and died at Newton Plantation and the enduring impact of slavery on Africa, the Americas, and Europe.
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