BY OSWALD T. BROWN
WASHINGTON, D.C., February 24, 2021 – Raphael “Ray” Munnings shared a post on Facebook on Tuesday, February 23, that resurfaced delightful memories of events held back in November of 2012 in connection with the renaming of the bridge that connects Nassau to Paradise Island.
Given the fact that teaching Bahamian history is not a top priority in The Bahamas’ educational system, I wonder how many young Bahamians know that the bridge that connects Nassau to Paradise Island was officially renamed the Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge on November 2, 2012?
Ray Munnings’ post was among a cavalcade of posts on Facebook occasioned by the fact that February 20 was the 94th birthday of Sir Sidney, the iconic Bahamian-American actor, who was “the first Black man to win the Best Actor Oscar, and paved the way for many actors of color who’ve since followed,” as People Magazine noted.
The renaming of the bridge in honour of Sir Sidney was widely heralded in an article written by the Associated Press on November 2, 2012
“Hundreds of spectators cheered as Poitier and Prime Minister Perry Christie arrived for the rechristening of the Paradise Island Bridge as part of the 40th anniversary celebration of Bahamian Independence,” the article noted. “The bridge, the largest in the island chain east of Florida, will now be known as the Sir Sidney Poitier Bridge.”
Here’s an excerpt from another article on the celebrations held in connection with the renaming of the bridge: “Scores of Bahamians, local dignitaries, and tourists came out to enjoy the celebrations of the launch of the Bahamas 40th independence year (2013) and to honour Sir Sidney Poitier after a bridge renaming ceremony took place earlier in the day.
“Oprah Winfrey, a long-time friend to Sir Sidney, was also in attendance joining Lady Poitier and a few Poitier family members in supporting the man who inspired the nation.
“The evening concert at Atlantis, Paradise Island, showcased Bahamian musical talent, with performances by The Region Bells, The Rahming brothers, Angelique Sabrina, Tingum Dem Band with Trent Carter and Fred Ferguson. Hosting the evening were Raphael Munnings and Bodine Johnson. BeBe Winans was the visiting featured performer. The festivities were broadcast on local television to be enjoyed throughout the nation.
“Remarks were given by the Bahamas Prime Minister followed by words from Sir Sidney. The evening closed with a Bahamian cultural Junkanoo Rushout, as well as a spectacular fireworks display by Grucci over the renamed, Sidney Poitier Bridge.”
