Schoelcher Day in Grand Case
Victor Schoelcher was a French abolitionist who wrote the decree that abolished slavery in French colonies in 1948. His birthday (July 21st) is celebrated in the French West Indies, including Saint Martin. In Grand Case, the festivities included a sailboat race in Grand Case Bay, bands, dancers and singers in the parking lot near the cultural center and a fireworks display.
Schoelcher also attempted to abolish the death penalty in France and was an expert on the French Caribbean, writing on a variety of subjects.
