Harris Promenade in San Fernando has entered a new chapter in its history.
On Tuesday, Mayor of San Fernando Robert Parris joined Grand Chief of the First Peoples Sovereign Nations of Trinidad and Tobago, Eric Lewis, to unveil the newly installed First Peoples’ statue as part of the 37th anniversary of San Fernando city-status celebrations.
Mayor Parris said the installation marks the beginning of his broader vision to transform Harris Promenade into a space where citizens can take pride in their cultural heritage.
“This monument signifies the importance of the First People to Trinidad and Tobago, and they finally have their prominence on this Harris Promenade amongst the other monuments that we have here. What we envision, just like Jamaica, just like Barbados, is to have a monument park here on Harris Promenade, and therefore, San Fernandians, we deserve more.”
Grand Chief of the First Peoples Sovereign Nations of Trinidad and Tobago, Eric Lewis, said the statue was a labour of love and collaboration and represents recognition of the past for future generations.
“We will continue the fight, not just a physical fight, you know, but a fight for elevation, in peace, in unity and in love. And to the others, all my indigenous communities all around the world, whoever is looking at this, we welcome you. I sit at big tables all the time, and there’s room for everyone to work, to contribute and to build.”
Also present at the event was President of the Greater San Fernando Area Chamber of Commerce, Kiran Singh, who pledged continued support for the First Peoples.
“We have to support the continuation of this civilisation to show that history has to corrected and it should be recognised in the proper way and this monument will stand here for eons, for the schools in the area, for the churches to recognise the contribution the First Peoples would have made to Trinidad and Tobago.”
This statue, according to Chief Lewis, is one of many more that will be erected.