‘Rebuilding Dominica Together’ is the theme for this year’s independence celebration.
On November 3rd 2015 Dominica will celebrate 37 years of independence.
This year’s celebration, however, is clouded by recent events brought on by Tropical Storm Erika which wrought widespread destruction to the island on August 27th.
Hon. Minister for Culture, Justina Charles stated, “We launch this year’s celebration against the backdrop of Tropical Storm Erika…It has affected many of our citizens and the country. Live have been lost, others are still unaccounted for. Homes and property destroyed and people had to be evacuated from the comfort of their homes to shelters. In some cases…the destruction is of such magnitude that villagers will need to be relocated to safer areas.
“It is for this reason that the theme for this year’s independence celebration is Rebuilding Dominica Together. Togetherness in rebuilding this beautiful island should transcend all boundaries. By this I mean political, religious, social class, sex and age,” she said.
Chairman of the Independence Committee, Raymond Lawrence explained why the celebrations will be a bit toned down this year.
“The road network and bridge situation is still very challenging for the movement of groups and individuals. Four out of the seven districts in Dominica were seriously devastated by the storm and many of the cultural group members are still sorting out and rebuilding their own lives, homes and communities. Some of the venues where cultural competitions are usually held were damaged and playing fields were compromised.
“In addition,” he continued, “Many of the staff members of various Government departments…were themselves very much involved in the relief and restoration efforts across the island.”
The celebration, however, will kick off with the E. O. Leblanc Memorial Lecture scheduled for the Fort Young Hotel on October 8th.
Following that, Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th are designated National Days of Prayer.
Other activities include Journée Kwéyol Parade on October 30th, Pan in the City on October 31st, NCCU Cadence-lypso competition on October 31st.
The National Youth Rally and the Independence Day Parade will also take place on November 2nd and 3rd respectively.
This year, the National Cultural Gala will take on a twist with local calypsonians and other artistes joining the cultural performances on stage.
The general public is implored to be part of this year’s activities.