I have witnessed the controversy about the Government not sponsoring the Emancipation Support Committee (ESC) properly.

I heard the words of Khafra Kambon about sponsorship of other events. Not only was Mr Kambon wrong but it appears that he is totally oblivious to the history of our people.

I am very proud of jazz and blues music and I am even more proud of the fact that it is "Afro-centric" so don't say that people invest only in things that are not black or African because you only insult the intelligence of young, smart, driven and positively vibrant black/African individuals like myself.

I am disappointed in the fact that the ESC cannot secure $7m for Emancipation celebrations in a country that was the first to recognise and celebrate this important day, it is surprising to me that Mr Kambon in 2012 is unable to motivate my community to support our heritage.

I look at the Chinese and Indian community and notice great appreciation for their culture, heritage and history and I envy them. I envy and respect them and wish the same for our community. A great man said two things that I remember every single day as a black man. 1. "In this great future you can't forget your past" and 2. "Emancipate yourself from mental slavery, none but ourselves can free our minds". Mr Kambon you need to free your mind and show the youth we are strong and that we don't have to beg for a handout. I am tired of it, I am tired of hearing other people say that is what we do and most of all I am tired of agreeing with them.

Peter Brathwaite

via e-mail