Bahamas National Independence Commission Artistic Director Ian Poitier, centre, announces the 43rd Independence Celebrations Events. (BIS Photo/Letisha Henderson)
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The Bahamas
has a lot to be proud of when one considers that this small arc of islands has often
produced world-class moments many times its magnitude by citizens who are
extremely talented across the board.
Honouring Our People’s Excellence is the theme of the 43rd
Anniversary Celebrations of Bahamas Independence, recognizing the stellar
achievements of many Bahamians throughout the islands of the country, and
abroad.
Speaking on
behalf of the Minister of Tourism at a press conference
Monday at Cabinet
Office to announce the Independence Celebrations Calendar of Events, Artistic
Director of the Bahamas National Independence Commission Ian Poitier pointed
out that in past years, Bahamian culture and the youth were particularly
highlighted, but this year a broad swath of Bahamian society is being praised. The commission asks that all Bahamians
participate in the many celebration activities that, he said, re-assert the
national identity, and tell the story.
Mr. Poitier
stated that there will be new things to look forward to, or “a refreshment” of
the independence programme, and that moving towards the country’s 50th
anniversary there will be new ideas incorporated into national observances,
especially Independence.
Launch of
the Celebrations will take place this
Friday, July 1, in Rawson Square as
‘National Pride Day.’
‘National
Pride Day’ will start with Official Opening ceremony
Friday morning, and flow
into a gala street festival to be enjoyed by all throughout the day and well
into the evening. Director of Bahamas
National Pride Association Joanne Johnson encouraged all to get their flags and
wear their colours.
Director of Bahamas National Pride Association Joanne Johnson discusses ‘National Pride Day.’ At left is Bahamas Christian Council Second Vice-President Rev. Dr. Gloria D. Ferguson, who gave details on the Ecumenical Service at Clifford Park on July 9. (BIS Photo/Letisha Henderson)
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There are
almost daily major events leading up to
July 10 Independence Day – namely: the
Beat Retreat, Rawson Square (
July 3); Ceremony to Honour Cultural Legends,
Pompey Square (
July 5); 43rd Anniversary Celebrations and Flag
Raising at Clifford Park (
July 9-10); State Reception at Government House (July
10); The People’s Love and Unity Rush, Bay Street (
July 11 at 12 a.m.);
Ceremony to Honour Sports Legends, National Stadium (
July 14).
During the
Independence Celebration period there will be an official re-naming of the
Marsh Harbour Airport to the Leonard M. Thompson Airport, which will take place
on
Thursday, July 7, in Abaco.
The Bahamas
Ministry of Tourism also promotes the popular Junkanoo Summer Festival on
Saturdays during July (except for
July 9 because of Clifford Park observances).
Surrounding
the fanfare will also be independence celebration-endorsed events – such as National
Art Gallery Cowbelling and Drumming in Rawson Square (
July 1); Urban Renewal
Flag Raising at all centre parks (
July 5); Liturgical Dance Parade &
Concert at Fort Charlotte to Arawak Cay (
July 10); and the All-Andros and Berry
Island Regatta (
July 8-11).
Superintendent
of the Royal Bahamas Police Force Band Dennis Sturrup reassured that the police
continue to take measures and precautions to ensure the safety and security of
the public.
Junkanoo Development Association’s Leslie Robinson, centre, discussing The People’s Love and Unity Rush.(BIS Photo/Letisha Henderson)
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Royal Bahamas Police Force Band Superintendent Dennis Sturrup, centre, reassures about security for the celebrations. At left is SAS Cabinet Office Sharine Symonette, left, and Royal Bahamas Defence Force Band Director Petty Officer Matthew Rolle, right. (BIS Photo/Letisha Henderson)
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