The First of August Movement, in collaboration with community, social and cultural organisations in Buxton and Friendship, will stage its annual Black Is Beautiful Pre-Emancipation Cultural Evening on Friday, July 31, bringing together residents and visitors to celebrate African heritage, emancipation and the enduring legacy of one of Guyana’s most historic villages.

The event, which begins at 7:00 p.m. at the newly constructed Buxton Market Tarmac, forms part of activities marking the 188th anniversary of full emancipation, which took effect on August 1, 1838.

Organisers said this year’s observance also commemorates the remarkable achievement of Buxton’s African ancestors, who in 1840 pooled their resources to purchase Plantation New Orange Nassau, establishing one of Guyana’s earliest post-emancipation villages and creating a lasting symbol of self-determination and community ownership.