BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - MEMBERS of the Independence 30 Celebrations Planning Committee have promised the nation a “feel good spirit” for the festivities scheduled for next month.
Speaking at a press conference yesterday (Aug. 27) at the ZIZ Studio, Chairperson of the Independence Celebrations Planning Committee, Sharon Rattan stated that Independence is a time of feeling good about one’s country.
“It is a time of reflection, of where we have been, where we are at this time and how we go forward. Our twin-island Federation has lots of proud moments which would bring smiles to our faces and that we wish to share with generations to come and other people across the world.”
She added that the current generations are benefitting from the foundations laid by those who came before and that this year’s celebration would bring a feel-good spirit
“We stand on the shoulders of men and women who boldly and confidently use active and passive strategies to make this country what it is today. So Independence 30 brings a feel-good spirit in St. Kitts and Nevis. And the theme that we have chosen this year, ‘Stability, Creativity and Prosperity Celebrating Independence 30’, encapsulates this feel-good spirit.”
She added that creative thinking was used in planning the activities.
“In approaching these activities, creative thinking had been used in our development and would be necessary for our future development. So we do have some creative activities. We also have experienced different levels of success over our 30-year period as an independent nation, and as a country we confidently believe that we can continue along this path. So, our celebrations have captured all of this. Now we have sought to sub-divide the entire month of September into some sub-themes.”
Rattan said that the celebrations would begin on September 1 with the National Health and Fitness Week and, fittingly so, with community relay “Run a Mile” festival, adding that all other events scheduled during this week would be to promote a healthy lifestyle.
She also said that a National Arts Festival would be the focus from September 8 to 14 and it would highlight the Federation’s rich culture. A Visual Arts Day to promote the works of local artists, Folklore Extravaganza and a Steel Pan and Gala Night are a few signature events that would take place in the Independence Square, the focal point for most events that week.
The Chairperson noted that the week starting on Monday (Sept. 15) would commence with a National Day of Prayer. And during this week, National Pride Week would also be celebrated, while the Independence Day Parade, National Heroes Day Ceremony and Community Awards Presentation would also be major highlights.
She also noted that the night of the September 18 is reserved for a special national treat; a Concert to hosted at the Warner Park Stadium with a special guest artiste.
Additionally, the week of September 22 has been designated National Family Week and will highlight the importance of strong family units in the continued growth and development of the Federation.
According to Rattan, the National Day of Service, Secondary Schools Elocution Contest and the ‘Know Your Country’ Primary Schools Quiz would also be held during that week.
