Michelle Benjamin Booed During Emancipation Day Address

Culture Minister Michelle Benjamin was loudly booed by sections of the crowd during the official African Emancipation Day celebrations in Port of Spain on Saturday, creating one of the day’s most talked-about moments.
Benjamin was delivering remarks at the Emancipation Village when the audience’s mood shifted. Reports indicate the crowd remained largely respectful until she praised Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and the Government for their support of the Emancipation movement. That prompted loud boos, jeers and whistles from sections of those gathered.
Despite the reaction, the minister continued her speech, insisting the Government remained committed to supporting the Emancipation Support Committee and preserving the legacy of African Emancipation.
The incident followed weeks of public debate over funding for Emancipation celebrations. Tensions had been building after disagreements between the Ministry of Culture and the Emancipation Support Committee regarding financial support and the organisation of this year’s activities, with both sides publicly defending their positions before the holiday.
Away from the disruption, the event remained focused on its central message of reparatory justice and remembrance. Speakers renewed calls for reparations for the descendants of enslaved Africans, stronger cultural preservation initiatives, and greater recognition of African heritage. The celebrations also featured the annual Kambule procession, traditional drumming, cultural performances and exhibitions celebrating African history and resilience.
While the speeches highlighted freedom, justice and unity, the public reaction to Benjamin’s remarks quickly became one of the defining moments of the 2026 African Emancipation Day observances, sparking widespread discussion and renewed debate over the relationship between the Government and cultural stakeholders.