BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Federation’s National Carnival Committee (NCC) has joined the growing call to address the rising gun violence in the Federation, an issue that continues to affect communities nationwide.
As the Carnival Season approaches, with over three months until its start and the Federation already reporting 25 homicides this year, NCC officials have reaffirmed their “commitment to fostering an environment of unity, love, and enjoyment for all stakeholders involved in our National Carnival.”
In a statement, the NCC expressed: ““The SKNNCC is calling upon all revellers, artistes, bands, patrons, promoters, band leaders, and all other stakeholders to join in promoting peace throughout the Carnival season. Sugar Mas is a time for bringing our communities together, and it is vital that this spirit of togetherness remains at the heart of our festivities,””
Gun violence and robberies have plagued the territory since the start of the year, with many attributing the issue to, among other factors, the glorification of violence in music.
“In this light, the SKNNCC will not endorse or condone any song, event, theme, or presentation that suggests or glorifies violence in any form. Our Carnival is a reflection of our shared heritage, creativity, and unity, and it must be celebrated with respect for these values,”” the statement noted.
The NCC further urged all participants to “embrace the spirit of Carnival by promoting harmony and joy in every aspect of the celebrations. Let us work together to ensure that Sugar Mas 53 is a safe, positive, and memorable experience for all.”
The theme for Carnival 2024/2025 is "There is Only One Place to Be: Sugar Mas 53."
