Welcome to the Sint Maarten Library’s Black History Month Observance 2026.

This observance celebrates literacy, educational advancement, and the preservation of Black cultural heritage in Sint Maarten, across the region, and throughout the global African Diaspora.

From February 23 to February 27, we present a week-long series of online interviews and discussions for youth and adults, highlighting distinguished educators and community leaders
whose lifelong dedication to public service, education, business, politics, and personal development has left an enduring impact.

This year’s featured literary figures, presented in no particular order, include:
Oldine Bryson-Panthophlet, interviewed by Alston Lourens
Enid Gregory–Van Putten, interviewed by Claudia Conner
Julio Romney, interviewed by Glenderlin Holiday
Edna Rijkaard, interviewed by Sjorensly Valies
Don Hughes, interviewed by Charisse Piper

Through these in-depth conversations, we reflect on their resilience, leadership, and invaluable contributions to our community. Black History Month 2026 is more than a celebration—it is a call to honor our past, engage our present, and inspire future generations. We invite residents and visitors alike to join us in celebrating legacy, literacy, and community.

Sint Maarten Library — empowering minds, preserving heritage, inspiring generations. I am Nzinga Lake, Communication and Marketing Consultant, and this year’s voice-over presenter for the Sint Maarten Library’s Black History Month “Passing on Our Legacy” 2026.