The Tribune

By DANA SMITH

Tribune Staff Reporter

dsmith@tribunemedia.net

IN an effort to “elevate” the significance of Majority Rule Day, a Bahamian National Honours system will be created and consideration given to making January 10 a public holiday in future years.

Prime Minister Perry Christie announced his

intentions yesterday afternoon during a press conference on planned activities for Majority Rule Day.

“In the Bahamas we have tended not to see the importance of celebrating Majority Rule Day even though arguably it is the most important date – with the exception of the abolition of slavery – in the calendar of historical events of our country,” he said.

“The significance and the historical hour of the moment that came about with Majority Rule – redefining the existence of people, both black and white, in our country needs to be placed appropriately in the calendar of events of our country.”

For “a very long time,” he said, consideration has been given to how Majority Rule can better be highlighted.

“It is my intention as prime minister to ensure that the 40th Anniversary Committee and the government of the Bahamas give full consideration to implementing this year a Bahamian National Honours system – replete with all of the regulations pertaining thereto – and that full consideration be given and a decision to be made as to whether or not the day is elevated to the status of a public holiday,” Mr Christie said.

“A prior cultural commission gave their recommendations, but this is the 40th Anniversary and this will be the time for the decision to be made with respect to placing in its rightful place that date and that event and the ensuing experience of our Commonwealth.”

The prime minister explained the National Honours system will recognise and celebrate notable Bahamians who have contributed to the country, as well as abroad.

Also in celebration of Majority Rule, this coming Thursday every public school in the country will start the day with a special assembly.

“We will emphasize the importance of this date and pay tribute to the courageous men and women who sacrificed much for the benefits we enjoyed today,” said Education MinisterJeromeFitzgerald.

The nation-wide school assemblies will become a permanent event on the education calendar, he added, and students will be asked to explain in their own words the significance of Majority Rule and its impact on the country.

“I believe that we have the important responsibility to ensure that every child and adult knows the significant of this historic day and that they appreciate the efforts and struggles of those who led the charge,” Mr Fitzgerald said.

“It is imperative that our students know the history of their freedom. They must know of events such as the Burma Road Riot, the General Strike, the Women’s Suffrage Movement, Black Thursday, and the organisation of the Labour Movement.

“They must know of the uncompromising principles and courage of individuals who fought against the tide of oppression, so that all Bahamians could enjoy the right to vote, freedom of movement and equal pay for a day’s work.”

The public is invited to attend the assemblies.