07 May 2019
Liberation Day services on 9 May will, for the first time, be themed to celebrate local women’s organisations and achievements.
The ceremony in Liberation Square will, first and foremost, recall the events that unfolded 74 years ago following the surrender of German Forces in Europe. The programme of events aims to celebrate the freedom, peace and good fortune that has come to the island since the end of the occupation in 1945.
This year marks the anniversary of milestone moments in history which capture the beginnings of the liberation of women. On 22 May 1919 the States of Jersey passed a new law allowing women over the age of 30 to vote.
The Bailiff of Jersey, Sir William Bailhache, said: “The Liberation Day service welcomes all residents across our island’s community to recognise our unique history, culture and identity. This year marks the 100th anniversary of some women obtaining the right to vote in Jersey, so the platform this year will be shared with senior women from all parishes and in many cases accompanied by a grandchild. We hope this will demonstrate that the ceremony aims to be reflective but also forward-looking, with a commitment to the island’s future”.
The senior citizens accompanying Connétables on the main stage, will have either lived through the occupation, evacuated the island or had been deported by the German command.
Special guests this year include a delegation from Trenton, New Jersey, led by Assemblyman Gordon Johnson and Mayor of Trenton, Reed Gusciora and the Channel Islands All Party Parliamentary Group led by Andrew Rosindell MP.
Women’s organisations celebrating their anniversary in 2019 include:
- Helvetia House School 130th anniversary
- the Jersey Netball Association 75th anniversary
- 110th anniversary of the Girl Guiding movement and the centenary of the formation of the Jersey Guides
- 25th anniversary of the ordination of women in the Island
Events on the day consist of band parades, a live video feed of the States Assembly addressed by Deputy Carolyn Labey and the re-enactment of liberation. Afternoon entertainment will include of 1940s themed afternoon tea with a ‘street party’ style seating arrangements.
The full ceremony plan is available on gov.je with maps of the site included. General free tickets are still available from the Information desk at Liberation bus station.
Liberation Day Programme 2019
gov.je