The Tribune

THIS year's independence celebrations have been scaled down to ensure funding is available for a spectacular 40th anniversary bash next year.

Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Dr Danny Johnson said next year's landmark anniversary "represents a generation" and is therefore a sign of "significant maturity" for the country.

"So we ask that you stay tuned for the exciting and momentous events that will mark our year-long countdown to 40," he said.

The theme for this year's independence celebration will be "United in Love and Service" and Dr Johnson said it covers five areas of national life.

Among these, he said, is "a reflection on whence we have come which is our foundation. Friday, July 6, is therefore National Pride Day.

"There will be a flag raising ceremony and the launch of the commemorative exhibition in Rawson Square as we seek to adequately remember the 50th anniversary of the very important event that led to universal suffrage through the Women's Suffrage Movement.

"From 10 am to 5pm, Rawson square will come alive in patronage of our fore-mothers who paved the way for the rights of Bahamians of all walks of life to vote.

"Saturday, July 7, is devoted to our families, inclusive of extended, church, organisational families - whatever embodies those ties that bind. We would like for the family to be the starting point for the healing of our nation."

The minister said Sunday, July 8, will be devoted to "the true head of our national and personal lives - God."

He encouraged all Bahamians to worship at the church of their choice, where a message of national unity from the Governor General will be read.

Dr Johnson said while government officials are encouraged to attend the official service at St Barnabas, the Governor General's message is expected to be read "from every pulpit throughout the Commonwealth of the Bahamas".

At 5.30pm on Sunday, the annual beat the retreat will be held in Rawson Square.

Finally on Monday evening, starting at 8pm and ending just after midnight, a "very exciting" cultural show will be held at Clifford Park, the minister said.

He encouraged those who cannot attend to tune into ZNS or find both Friday's Pride Day ceremony at 10am and Monday's celebrations on the internet.