25 January 2017

January 25th marks the annual celebration of Scotland’s national bard, Robert Burns. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon describes the importance of Burns’ legacy and how his poetry still means so much to so many in Scotland and further afield.

The First Minister says in her video message:

Every year, millions of people across the world celebrate the life and work of Robert Burns. Suppers and celebrations are held and places from Dumfries to Detroit, from Beijing to Brisbane.

“In Scotland we’re hugely proud of the fact that Burns’ work continues to mean so much to people of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds.

“People around the world appreciate his humour, admire his empathy for others and are deeply moved by his love songs and poetry. And we also identify with his principles, his internationalist outlook, the belief in equality that his poems set out, and his vision of a world where, man to man, the world o’er shall brothers be, for a’ that.

“As we mark Burns’ Night I know that many people will also be reflecting on those sentiments, those enduring values of equality, inclusion, and internationalism. They are well worth celebrating and well worth striving for.

“So tonight, whether you’re in Scotland or further afield, whether you’re at a special event for dinner, or simply having a quiet time at home, I hope you have a wonderful evening, and I hope you get a chance to tak’ a cup o’ kindness, and toast the life and work of the great Rabbie Burns.”