The Tribune

DR EMMANUEL Francis, author of ‘The History of the Saxons Junkanoo Group (The Early Years): Stories of a Forgotten Bahamian Culture’, paid a courtesy call on Minister of Education, Science and Technology Jerome Fitzgerald.

Dr Francis told Mr Fitzgerald he believes that over the years, Junkanoo played a pivotal role in the development of good character in its participants, and afforded them an opportunity to express their “inner brilliance”.

Although it is “an attempt to capture and preserve the memories of the Junkanoo experience of earlier years from the perspective of the Saxons Junkanoo group, and to show its relevance to the culture of those times” Dr Francis said the rival Valley Boys are also mentioned in the book.

Mr Fitzgerald expressed his pleasure over the book, noting that Prime Minister Perry Christie has repeatedly remarked on the need for the history of Junkanoo to be recorded.

The minister said he hopes that the writing of this history book will encourage other Bahamian authors.