Buckley's Uprising Day in 2027

In January 2026, the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis approved the establishment of a new national holiday to commemorate the historic Buckley's Uprising, with effect from January 28th 2027. From that year onward, January 28th will be observed annually as a national holiday, marking one of the most pivotal moments in the Federation’s struggle for workers’ rights, social justice, and dignity.

Buckley's Uprising, also known as the Buckley Riots, occurred on January 28, 1935, in St. Kitts. It was a significant labor protest by sugar cane workers against low wages and poor working conditions. The uprising marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for workers' rights in the Caribbean.

The uprising is now recognized as a crucial event in the history of labor rights in St. Kitts and Nevis. 

The major national announcement was shared with the public by Hon. Konris Maynard, Minister of Public Infrastructure et al., and elected representative for St. Christopher #3, during the 91st Anniversary Commemoration of the Buckley’s Uprising, held on January 28th 2026, at Buckley’s Estate.

Speaking at the Ceremony, Prime Minister Drew, in his remarks, noted the announcement as both timely and necessary, noting that the Buckley’s Uprising of 1935 was not only a defining national moment, but one that reverberated across the Caribbean and the wider world.

“It [The Buckley’s Uprising] was not only a local event, it was not only a regional event. It was an international event, because the uprising here sent shockwaves all the way to the east and to Africa, and sent a message to all oppressed people that you can rise up and ask for your true liberation”, Prime Minister Drew said. “Honouring this moment with a national holiday ensures that those sacrifices are never forgotten and that future generations understand the price paid for the rights we enjoy today.” 

The Prime Minister further emphasized that the observance of a national holiday is part of a broader, deliberate effort by the Government to deepen historical awareness, strengthen national identity, and reinforce the values of unity, equality, and social justice that continue to guide the Federation’s development.

The national holiday will complement ongoing initiatives to preserve and promote the legacy of the Buckley’s Uprising, including the construction of a monument at Buckley’s Estate, the integration of the uprising into the national school curriculum, and expanded public education and commemoration activities.

The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis reaffirmed that the formal observance of Buckley's Uprising Day represents a lasting commitment to remembering the sacrifices of those who stood against injustice, while inspiring continued progress toward a more just, inclusive, and empowered society.