“EXTRAORDINARY CELEBRATION” OF THE BAHAMAS’ 50TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY HELD IN OTTAWA

Bahamas High Commissioner to Ottawa V. Alfred Gray (second from right in second row) and other participants in the Junkanoo extravaganza held in Ottawa’s Byward Market on July 15

OTTAWA, Canada — The Bahamas High Commission in Ottawa, Canada, posted this collection of photos on Facebook on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, on the “extraordinary celebration” on July 15th, as part of the celebration of The Bahamas’ 50th anniversary of independence. We decided to share some of them with readers of BAHAMAS CHRONICLE, which has a huge following among the Bahamian diaspora across the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom as well as in The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean. The photos were shared with the following narrative:

An extraordinary celebration took place on July 15th, as we marked the 50th Independence Day of the Bahamas right here in Canada! The Bahamas High Commission, led by High Commissioner V. Alfred Gray and his dedicated team, brought the pulsating heart of Bahamian culture – Junkanoo – to Ottawa’s Byward Market.

Bahamians from all parts of Canada joined us to honor this monumental milestone. The Junkanoo Legends truly lit up the stage, presenting an immersive Bahamian experience that attendees could see, hear, feel, and take to heart.

Whether you’re familiar with our vibrant culture or experiencing it for the first time, this event echoed the adage, “It’s better in the Bahamas!” We brought a slice of our paradise to Canada, proving that even 50 years on, the spirit of the Bahamas shines brighter than ever.

Here’s to another 50 years of independence, unity, and rich cultural heritage!