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From:TheBahamasWeekly.com Bahamas Information Services Updates
NASSAU, The Bahamas - Dr. the Hon. Duane Sands declared “Let the Celebrations Begin – March on Bahamaland,” as he officially launched activities in Parliament Square, Friday, June 29, to mark the country’s 45th anniversary as an independent and sovereign nation. In his remarks, Dr. Sands, who represented Dr. the Hon. Hubert Minnis, Prime Minister, urged the public to attend and participate in the week of activities planned in recognition of this year’s anniversary. “Wear your national colours, wear the Flag pin, and decorate your shops and homes. Place the flags on your cars,” Dr. Sands said.
He also challenged local radio stations to play Bahamian music and television stations to replay Bahamian documentaries. Dr. Sands recollected July 10, 1973 when The Bahamas embarked on the journey of nationhood. He said the lowering of the Union Jack and raising of the Bahamian flag was a “proud moment” for all Bahamians. “Over 45 years we have achieved much and we have much to be thankful for. Every day we continue to celebrate good news. “We have remained politically stable with some 389 years of Parliamentary democracy. We have an independent judiciary and the rule of law, indispensable elements for development and growth. And we are still economically sound and socially secure.
I highlight these facts because we sometimes take this reality for granted. We must appreciate these given the uncertainties, civil wars, and social and economic conflicts in other parts of the world.” Dr. Sands referenced “success” stories of young Bahamians who are making the country proud. Among them are 49 Bahamian doctors who recently graduated from The Bahamas’ own regional/local School of Medicine; four promising young women who just graduated top of their class from the University of The Bahamas Business School; Shaunae Miller-Uibo, Bahamian track star; and participants in the Independence official programme launch, Felicia Bien-Aime, Lyric Lighbtourn and Remington Minnis.
“All of these young people were born after 1973. You can see from these examples that we are positioning our youth to take their rightful place in our society. “We have come a long way and accomplished much. And we have done so under the watchful eye of the Almighty. We have indeed come this far by faith,” stated Dr. Sands. He commended Mark Humes, Chairman of the National Independence Secretariat, for outstanding leadership in coordinating activities to mark the celebrations, and the committee for their time, commitment and love of country. Members of the Royal Bahamas Police Force led a brief Flag Raising ceremony and officially unveiled the logo for the 45th Independence Anniversary. A Junkanoo rush-out led by Conquerors for Christ on Bay Street followed.
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