MP Sjamira Roseburg praises powerful premiere of echoes of the enslaved

GREAT BAY--Member of Parliament Sjamira Roseburg attended a private screening of the new St. Martin–produced film Echoes of the Enslaved, describing the evening as a profound moment of cultural pride, artistic excellence, and historical truth for the island. The film, created by Ras Mosera and featuring an all-local cast, will premiere publicly on December 6 at Caribbean Cinemas.

MP Roseburg congratulated the full creative team, stating that the premiere marked “an unforgettable and historic moment for our island.” She emphasized how deeply moved she was by the performances of the local actors, noting that their ability to carry the story with honesty and emotional weight demonstrated the strength of St. Martin’s artistic community. “Our history is not distant, it lives within us,” she said. “These actors reminded us of that with every scene.”

She extended special recognition to Axum Art Café, filmmaker Ras Mosera, and lead actor Ménélik Arnell. “The way our history, our pain, resilience, strength, and spirit was captured in the film was powerful, intentional, and deeply moving,” she noted, praising the commitment to authenticity and cultural respect that shaped the production.

"What made the night even more profound was the location: right at the Courthouse, this masterpiece stands tall. Before you even walk inside, you are greeted by this powerful reminder of who we are, where we come from, and what justice truly means for a people who survived so much. Its placement is no accident it transforms the entrance into a space of truth, reflection, and ancestral presence. A powerful symbol standing at the doorway of justice."

MP Roseburg also reflected on the symbolism surrounding the event, which included the unveiling of a significant new artwork placed at the entrance of the Courthouse.

The sculpture, titled “Oualichi and the Echoes of the Enslaved,” was created by artist Ronald “Rusty” Dubelstoot. MP Roseburg called it “a masterpiece of layered metal” that honors the women of St. Martin and connects past and present. “Oualichi," she said, meaning land of the brave and beautiful women, is the perfect name for this remembrance piece honoring the women of our island’s past." The piece features:

• Earrings symbolizing both SXM and African heritage

• A Sankofa bird representing the importance of remembering one’s history

• A mirror inviting viewers to reflect on identity and ancestral strength

“Sankofa,” she explained, aligns perfectly with the spirit of St. Martin Day. “We uplift our future by understanding our past,” she said. Sankofa, a key Adinkra symbol from Ghana meaning “to go back and retrieve it,” This message ties seamlessly into our St. Martin Day theme, reminding us that remembering is a form of empowerment."

MP Roseburg described the sculpture as a message to “every person, every woman, every child,” calling it a tribute to the island’s lineage of resilience. “It reminds us that our identity comes from survivors, from courage, and from undeniable beauty,” she added.

She hailed the film and sculpture as powerful tools for cultural education and collective healing: “A statue filled with intention. A film filled with truth. An island filled with history, culture, and resilience.”

MP Roseburg encourages the public to attend the official premiere of Echoes of the Enslaved on December 6. “Go out, support our local talent, honor our history, and witness this masterpiece for yourself,” she said.

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