Emancipation Festival Faces Funding Debate, Minister Urges Reform
July 28, 2025 – The Ministry of Culture and Community Development, led by Minister Michelle Benjamin, is calling for greater accountability and public participation in the future of the Emancipation Support Committee of Trinidad and Tobago (ESCTT). Minister Benjamin, via a media release issued on Sunday, July 27th, expressed concerns about a perceived lack of consistent financial support from the government for the annual celebrations.
She acknowledged the committee’s concerns but emphasized that the Emancipation journey is a broad effort, not solely dependent on government funding. She highlighted that the current administration faces a significant financial deficit, which impacts all commitments. The Ministry released a table detailing grants and sponsorship allocations to the ESCTT from 2020 to 2024, showing varying levels of support. While $1.4 million was allocated for 2024, these funds will not be available until January 2025.
Minister Benjamin also pointed to several areas where the festival itself needs reform. These include repetitive programs, limited marketing, high entry fees, outdated planning, a lack of collaboration with the wider African diaspora, and a need for greater stakeholder relations. This call for reform highlights a push to modernize and strengthen the Emancipation Festival for the future.
