Emancipation Statue (Bussa) Roundabout: A Symbol of Freedom

The Emancipation Statue, more affectionately known as the Bussa Statue, is a powerful monument located at the Bussa Roundabout in Bridgetown, Barbados. Unveiled in 1985, the statue commemorates the 150th anniversary of emancipation and symbolizes the breaking of the chains of slavery.The imposing bronze sculpture, created by Barbadian-Guyanese artist Karl Broodhagen, depicts a muscular figure with broken chains around his wrists, reaching towards the sky. While often referred to as Bussa, the statue represents the collective spirit of freedom and resistance. Bussa, an enslaved West African man, led a significant slave rebellion in 1816, a pivotal event in Barbados' history. The rebellion, involving approximately 400 enslaved people, aimed to overthrow the white planter class and challenge the oppressive system of slavery.Located at the J.T.C. Ramsay Roundabout, where the ABC Highway meets Highway 5, the statue is easily accessible. The statue is inscribed on both sides, with one side reading: "Lick an Lock-up Done Wid, Hurray fuh Jin-Jin [Queen Victoria]". This chant was popular among Barbadians when slavery was officially abolished. The other side features text from the Abolition Act of 1833. Every year on August 1st, Barbados celebrates Emancipation Day, with a march towards the statue in recognition of the abolition of slavery and Bussa's contribution.