Hon. Gilroy Usher, Port Loyola
I
U.K. abolished slavery in 1833, but kept our ancestors enslaved despite plea
With sabotage and resistance with the ultimate price in 1838, they were finally set free
Blacks rioted in Belize City in 1919 for betterment and denounced racism, poverty, and exploitation
Price, Goldson, and other revolutionaries demanded more development and an independent nation
We must all work hard to pass on a better country to the next generation
II
For greater progress each ethnic group needs a solid organization
The Garifuna and others have led the way; time for a strong Creole association
Rain or sunshine, we must harness the land, sea, air, and sun for our development
Gangs, crime, drug abuse, or blaming others won’t result in upliftment
Justice, jobs, education, and equal opportunities for all is our firm commitment
III
Like murderous gangs, we must also end police senseless killings and brutality
Courtesy, encouragement, and respect, we should always give to those in authority
New factories, expanding businesses, and improved communities here and there
United as Belizeans, we must overcome challenges to our progress anywhere
August 2nd, Emancipation Day, we celebrate our freedom and progress everywhere.
