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RESOLUTION DECLARING AUGUST 1 OF 2023 AND EVERY SUBSEQUENT YEAR AS �TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO EMANCIPATION DAY� IN MIAMI-DADE COUNTY

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WHEREAS, Emancipation Day in Trinidad and Tobago celebrates the day enslaved Africans throughout the British Empire gained liberation from slavery in 1838; and
WHEREAS, Trinidad and Tobago was the first nation to declare a national holiday to commemorate the abolishment of African slavery; and
WHEREAS, since 1985, Trinidad and Tobago has celebrated Emancipation Day on August 1 as a public holiday filled with African cultural events and exhibitions, as well as processions of music, song, and dance; and
WHEREAS, the annual observance of Emancipation Day in Trinidad and Tobago recognizes both the struggle and sacrifice of enslaved Africans and the resiliency and accomplishments of their descendants, many of whom are leaders in their communities; and
WHEREAS, Miami-Dade County is home to many Trinbagonian people whose enslaved ancestors gained freedom on August 1, 1838; and
WHEREAS, the Board seeks to commemorate the liberation of enslaved Africans in Trinidad and Tobago and to celebrate the culture and achievements of Trinbagonians annually,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA, that this Board declares August 1 of 2023 and every subsequent year as �Trinidad and Tobago Emancipation Day� in Miami-Dade County.