Amid the celebration for the Dominica’s 45th Independence Day begins, the Cultural Minister of the island, Gretta Roberts, has made the announcement about the calendar for activities by the Cultural Division and the Government of Dominica making sure that there is “an attraction for everyone” to enjoy during the next four weeks.
While hosting the official launch of this year’s celebration, she emphasized that the upcoming festivals would once again offer a diverse array of events to cater to several interests.
The list of the events include glamorous pageants for those who appreciate style and elegance, cultural competitions for those drawn to traditional Jing Ping and dances, and school-based celebrations aiming at nurturing love and appreciation for culture and heritage among children.
The cultural semi-finals start over the weekend for the west and southwest at Kalleb Laurent Primary School and the north and northeast at Bense Primary School.
She also stated that the celebrations of culture every Friday throughout the month of October, including Jounne Panyen on October 6, Jounne Chapo Pay on the October 13, and Had Kweyol on the October 20.
Noting to which, Minister Roberts added that, “This year, at 45, we ask all citizens of Dominica at home and abroad to don our national wear, and on Creole Day, Friday, October 27, to show the world that National Wear truly represents.”
It is to be specifically mentioned that, Dominica’s national wear will also be a focal point of discussion during History Week, which runs from October 6 to the 13.
Roberts mentioned that this year’s independence theme, “Annou Selebwe”, is simple in expression but carries significant meaning.
“It is a reminder that even in what may seem to be the most difficult times, the indomitable Dominican spirit is always guaranteed to take us through. As a government, we have faced a succession of challenges, both natural and manmade,” she stated.
Along with this, she added that, “Yet we forge ahead, fully cognizant of a sworn responsibility to secure a brighter, more hopeful future for our people. Our determination to not only survive, but to flourish and prosper, and our strength and courage as people are why we celebrate.”
