Caribbean National Weekly

Grenada to honor former Prime Minister Maurice Bishop with sculptured busts

By Joanne Clark··1 min read
Grenada to honor former Prime Minister Maurice Bishop with sculptured busts

Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell has unveiled plans for a significant commemoration, announcing a collaboration with a Cuban foundation to erect sculptured busts honoring former Prime Minister Maurice Bishop and others slain on October 19, 1983.

A tribute to national heroes

Fresh from an official visit to Cuba, Prime Minister Mitchell revealed that these busts will form a poignant centerpiece during the National Heroes Day celebrations on October 19 of this year. 

Last October marked the first observance of National Heroes Day in Grenada, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of Bishop’s assassination. 

Bishop, Grenada’s inaugural left-wing prime minister, and several cabinet members fell victim to a palace coup, leading to the collapse of the People Revolutionary Government (PRG).

A symbol of unwavering remembrance

Decades after the tragic events of 1983, Bishop’s remains remain unidentified, leaving his final resting place unknown. 

The absence of a tangible memorial has long been felt by Grenadians, making this initiative a symbol of unwavering remembrance.

Forging bonds through art

During his visit to Havana, Prime Minister Mitchell engaged in productive discussions with the son of the renowned sculptor responsible for the Maurice Bishop bust. 

Through this encounter, a partnership blossomed with the foundation, paving the way for a similar endeavor in Grenada.

Fostering artistic legacy

In a press conference, Prime Minister Mitchell highlighted the broader significance of this partnership. Beyond the creation of the busts, the collaboration aims to foster artistic endeavors among Grenadian students. 

Mitchell emphasized the foundation’s commitment to imparting knowledge of bust making and sculpture, nurturing a new generation of artisans.

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