Emancipation & Reparations: PM Gaston Browne used Emancipation Day to warn that powerful nations are pressuring small states into modern “economic recolonization,” renewing calls for reparatory justice through education, health, tech, climate resilience, debt reform and fair financing. CARICOM Emancipation Message: CARICOM Chair Philip J Pierre framed emancipation as how the region lives—not just how it celebrates—urging Caribbean unity and building a future worthy of past sacrifices. UWI Five Islands on “Genius”: The campus urged reflection on slavery’s “arithmetic,” warning that Caribbean talent was priced and exploited, and calling for protection of Caribbean genius for future generations. Visa Costs for Caribbean Travelers: The U.S. made its visa bond program permanent, with consular officers able to require refundable bonds up to $20,000 for B1/B2 applicants from 50 countries, including Cuba. Antigua Carnival Peak: PM Browne welcomed thousands to Carnival, urging unity, safe and responsible revelry, and looking out for one another. ABEA Prayer-Cade: Antigua Barbuda Evangelical Alliance will hold its Emancipation Day Prayer-Cade Aug 2 at 3:30 p.m. from the Old Parliament Building with an island-wide motorcade. Vision Care Boost: Browne launched the Prime Minister’s Vision Initiative for free reading glasses (25,000) and prescription eyeglasses (8,000) for eligible adults. Youth & Culture: Antigua and Barbuda–Jersey Art Exchange mural work continues, while Junior Carnival awards and the Smalta Junior Parade kept family culture front and centre. Maritime Careers: Tropical Shipping and partners welcomed a second cohort of maritime apprentices for hands-on port and shipping training. Sports: Aj’Marie Davis swept four golds and a bronze at Nevis Culturama; and flag football is set to grow locally with an Antiguan-born, US-based coach bringing a safer, lower-cost youth option.