A cultural official is urging bandleaders to embed clearer narratives of Emancipation, Independence and reparations in Crop Over masquerade, arguing that the revival of large wire-bent costumes offers a practical and visually powerful way to do it.

“Have the bands depict an aspect of Emancipation in the large costumes,”  said Rodney Grant, programme advisor in the Division of Youth and Culture’s Office of Pan African Affairs and Heritage,  adding that the concept should not be limited to slavery.

He said the recent return of Cohobblopot and the resurgence of elaborate wire-bending costumes present an opportunity to strengthen the festival’s cultural and historical significance.