The first of many prestigious historical images and artifacts to decorate the newly constructed National Archives on Homestretch Avenue was received by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Dr. Frank Anthony yesterday.

The donation, a painting of slain historian/political leader, Dr.Walter Rodney was handed over by his brother, Hubert Rodney.

The portrait according to Rodney was done in the late 1980s by an artist affiliated to the Working People’s Alliance (WPA). It serves as a reminder of his life and work after his tragic death.

Dr. Anthony announced that the portrait which he intends to reframe, will be hoisted at a prominent position in the Archives.

The National Archives which will be named after Walter Rodney is expected to be completed by early December according to Minister Anthony. At present installation works on shelves are ongoing.

A proud and enthusiastic Hubert Rodney who was accompanied by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Keith Booker, said he was prompted to make the donation by the fact that the portrait is the only one of its kind that will have a place in the National Archives.

“Nowhere is there an established portrait of him and that’s something we all have to deal with in terms of our leaders; how do other people see us…we know what a photograph says but we don’t know how a photographer sees us,” Rodney said.

Hubert Rodney who is a lawyer by profession said he was an active member of the Rodney movement from a legal standpoint and continues to play this role at the political level.