Members of the Solidarity Movement with Cuba, in particular the Pan-Africanist Coalition, chose a humble Barbadian community in Haynesville, St. James, to celebrate two momentous historical events for the Caribbean region on January 1: The independence of Haiti, led by Toussaint-Louverture, and the triumph of the Cuban Revolution led by Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro. As is tradition every year on this island, the last day of the festival dedicated to highlighting the African cultural heritage, known as Kwanzaa, is chosen. In expressing his gratitude, the Cuban Ambassador highlighted the symbolism of the event, for two of Kwanzaa's essential principles are "kujichagulia" (self-determination) and "umoja" (unity of family, community and nation) At the same time symbols of the triumph of the Haitian slaves who fought for their freedom and the revolutionary triumph of the Cubans, whose creator was the Commander-in-Chief.
The president of the Barbados-Cuba Friendship Association, David Denny, and the member of Parliament for the Labor Party of Barbados, Trevor Prescod, highlighted the significance and example of both revolutions in the cultural and historical evolution of our region. Both pan-African leaders agreed to recognize the contributions of the historical leader of the Cuban Revolution, whose life and work was dedicated not only to the social justice of his people, but also to internationalism that contributed to the success of African liberation and continues to contribute to the development of the sisters Nations of the third world. The cultural part was animated by a youth group of percussion of the community of Haynesville.