Independence Monument revealed

A FEELING of pride swept across the Garrison Savannah and the entire nation on Wednesday night as hundreds of persons returned to the place where Barbados symbolically gained its independence 

exactly 50 years to the day.

 

For many, the reveal of the 50th Anniversary of Independence National Monument and the pomp and pageantry brought back memories of the night of November 30 1966, when the Barbados flag was raised for the first time. 

 

Though not in the same spot, all eyes were fixated on the oversized Barbados flag as it was being unfurled and raised, as the National Anthem was being sung by the Mass Choir, much to the delight of the large crowd who cheered loudly after the flag was fully raised.

 

There was no rainfall at the event, which was pushed back one day because of island-wide torrential showers on Tuesday. The energetic crowd of locals and visitors alike who came prepared for any eventuality, could be seen in their national colours, waving their Barbados flags, cheering loudly and generally capturing the historic occasion for posterity.

 

They watched as His Royal Highness Prince Henry of Wales, who is on the island to participate in the Jubilee celebrations, secured the gnomon into the sundial of the monument, signalling its completion and symbolically inviting all Barbadians to embrace the present and make a personal commitment to the future.

 

Also on the night Barbados' only living National Hero, the Right Excellent Sir Garfield Sobers – representing the legends of Barbados – was joined by Queen's Young Leader Firhaana Bulbulia and performer Master Ricardo Reid, who represented the legacies of Barbados. They sealed the time capsule in the 50th Anniversary of Independence National Monument which will be opened in 2066. 

 

Prime Minister the Rt Hon Freundel Stuart placed the Commemorative Trident on the capsule.

 

Religious leaders from all denominations across the island oversaw the proceedings as they took their prominent positions on the main stage. Blessings were offered by Bishop of Barbados and Archbishop of the West Indies The Most Reverend & Doctor the Honourable John Holder, representing the Anglican Church; Reverend John Hunte, Reverend Mother Jacqueline Pierce and Reverend Onkphra Wells of the Spiritual Baptist Community and Priest in Charge of the Barbados Hindu Temple Thakoor Prashad.

 

The night ended with a display of fireworks compliments the Government of Guyana, represented by President David Granger, who was also in attendance. 

(JH)