As we draw the curtains on our Black History Month observance for 2025, we reflect on the profound journey we have embarked upon together.
This month has been a testament to the resilience, achievements, and contributions of the community in Sint Maarten and beyond.
Our theme, "Passing on OUR Legacy," has allowed us to honor the remarkable lives of Vance James Jr., Leonides Richardson, and Camille Baly. Through their stories, we have gained a deeper understanding of the values they embodied and the indelible marks they left on our society.
We have celebrated not just their professional accomplishments but also their character, struggles, and personal journeys, enriching our appreciation of our cultural heritage and inspiring us to continue their legacy of excellence and perseverance.
The Sint Maarten Library and the Black History Month 2025 coordinators sincerely thank all family members, Mrs. Therasita James, David James, Yohan James, Leonidas Friday, David Richardson Sr. & Jr., Mrs. Talula Baly-Vanterpool, special guests, assistant coordinator Ms. Glenderlin Holiday, and interviewers Michel Peterson & Marvio Cooks for sharing their insights and memories. Your contributions made this observance truly special!
The event did not solely focus entirely on the accomplishments of our local community. However, it encouraged authors to continue shining their light and inspiring the younger generation to embrace Sint Maarten's literary legacy. There is power in books and in the words of the writers found within them.
The Sint Maarten Library, in collaboration with Soualiga Capoeira and AXUM Café, successfully hosted a Capoeira workshop, highlighting the significance of cultural heritage and community engagement. This event not only honored Black History Month but also fostered a deeper appreciation for the diverse cultural identity of the Caribbean.
The workshop introduced participants to the rich history and cultural significance of Capoeira, a Brazilian martial art that blends dance, music, and acrobatics. As part of the program, Soualiga Capoeira’s Jacques “Folha Seca” Heemskerk donated and presented a reading of "Tres Moleques: Capoeira Explained to Children," a graphic novel by Sylvia Bouboutou and Joe Cai. The book emphasizes themes of open-mindedness, perseverance, and self-esteem.
The Sint Maarten Library streamed the reading live on its Facebook page, ensuring wider accessibility. Additionally, as part of the Black History Month celebrations, MPC HAVO Social Studies interns Roeniel Sarabdjitsingh, Per’yzia Baly, Alberto Matos, and Leila Euton-Lambert hosted a successful trivia event to honor Black heroes and trailblazers. Using Kahoot!, the competition engaged teenagers (ages 13-17) in an interactive and educational experience about Black culture and achievements.
Two winners, Dakaya Beaton and Thyne Beldman, received books by Black authors from the Caribbean. The interns further participated in a virtual storytelling session featuring selected excerpts from "Brown Girl Dreaming" by Jacqueline Woodson, recipient of the Newbery Honor (2015) and the Coretta Scott King Award (2015). The session is available for viewing on the Sint Maarten Library’s Facebook page, reinforcing the library’s commitment to fostering awareness and appreciation of Black heritage among youth.
The book talk featured Brown Girl Dreaming along with poetry writing in the Diamante style, and painting session held with a dynamic group of youngsters ages 8-12 at the afterschool program - ASA – No Kidding with our Kids Foundation.
This meaningful discussion on black heritage and identity was a highlight of the observance. A key highlight of the Black History Month program was the visit of New York-based teen author Skylar McBride, of Sint Maarten/St. Martin heritage, who presented three of her published books at the Sint Maarten Library. She also read excerpts from "Melanin Magic" to young readers at the EGO Foundation Afterschool Program, inspiring self-love, self-acceptance, and self - confidence in one’s natural beauty and cultural identity, making a significant impact on the young audiences.
The program also featured author Ange Jessurun, who read a chapter from her book "Faya Lobi: 200 Jaar Vurige Liefde in de Diaspora" (Faya Lobi: 200 Years of Fiery Love in the Diaspora), focusing on slavery and identity. The featured chapter, "Vrijheid en een Achternaam" (Freedom and a Surname), delves into the historical significance of naming traditions among formerly enslaved individuals.
The book is now also available in Papiamento, further expanding its accessibility to diverse linguistic audiences.
To our community, thank you for your unwavering support and participation. Your presence and engagement have been the driving force behind the success of these events. Let us carry forward the lessons we have learned and the inspiration we have gained into our daily lives.
As we close this chapter, let us remember that Black History is not confined to a single month. It is a continuous celebration of our heritage, achievements, and the ongoing journey toward a brighter future. Let us remain committed to preserving and passing on our legacy for generations to come.
Thank you, and may we continue to honor and celebrate our rich cultural heritage every day.
The Sint Maarten Library remains steadfast in its mission to promote literacy, education, and cultural awareness. Through events like these, the library continues to create meaningful opportunities for learning, reflection, and celebration of the rich heritage that shapes the community.
For more information on upcoming events and initiatives, visit the Sint Maarten Library’s website and Social Media Platforms or contact us at +1721-542-2970.
