Saint Lucia’s 41st Independence Anniversary was held under the theme; Now is the time, let’s do this together! From the press launch in January to date, Saint Lucians have participated in and enjoyed a plethora of activities. The Independence weekend culminated in action-packed activities enjoyed not only by participants, but also by those following the activities online. Apart from the numerous private events happening around the island, staple events took place, such as, the Military Parade, the Best of the Saint Lucia Concert, and the Prime Minister’s Independence Ball. A major highlight was the National Independence Parade held on February 22nd, 2020, led by Sub Committee Chair Mrs. Sonia Sifflet, Parade Lead, Mr. Barry George, Producer and Events Company of Saint Lucia.
According to Minister Belrose, “This year we turned 41 and built on our theme All In of last year, calling our nation to act under the theme Now is the time, let’s do this together!” She added, “Together we honoured our greats and focused on building one resilient and new Saint Lucia through the various events held over the period.”
One such event which promoted the theme and showcased the history and progress of our Nation was the National Independence Parade. This event comprised 49 contingents representing Ministries of Government, Constituency Councils, cultural community groups, the private sector through various corporate houses, social groups and hotels. Contingents created beautifully designed floats and well adorned dancers and walkers, all showcasing the best of Saint Lucia and depicting this year’s theme.
Special thanks to the event sponsors:
Platinum Sponsor; Flow
Gold Sponsors; 1st National Bank and DigicelSilver Sponsor; Courts
Bronze Sponsor; Windward & Leeward Brewery, Saint Lucia Air & Sea Ports Authority and Sunswept Resorts
Supporting Sponsor; Quick Delivery
According to the Honourable Jeannine Giraudy-McIntyre, Chair of the Independence Committee, “We are pleased with the turnout for this Event. There was eager participation by the public and the magnificent displays by the various contingents were well researched, well-crafted and informative and, most of all, beautiful.
The People’s Choice Award was decided by the People through an online platform allowing Saint Lucians around the world to be a part of the festivities at home. A panel of judges judged the rest of the competition.
The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM)captured the award for Best Portrayal by a Ministry, while Vieux Fort South captured Best Portrayal by a Constituency and Most Original and Creative Design. See full results below:
BEST PORTRAYAL BY A GOVERNMENT MINISTRY/DEPARTMENT: OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER 1615
2. Department of the Public Service 1315
3. Ministry of Education 1145
BEST PORTRAYAL BY A CONSTITUENCY: VIEUX FORT SOUTH 1609
2. Castries East 1592
3. Gros Islet 1429
MOST INSPIRING CONTINGENT: CASTRIES EAST 416
2. Dennery North 406
3. Office of the Prime Minister 406
MOST ORIGINAL AND CREATIVE DESIGN: VIEUX FORT SOUTH 403
2. Office of the Prime Minister 400
3. Castries East 398
BEST REPRESENTATION OF THEME: CHOISEUL 421
2. Office of the Prime Minister 394
3. Vieux Fort South 380
BEST CONVOY OR FLOAT: OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER 445
2. Vieux Fort South 442
3. Gros Islet 410
LUCIAN PRIDE AWARD: BANK OF SAINT LUCIA
PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARD: DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE
BEST NATIONAL AWARD: HELEN FOLK DANCERS
For full highlights of the independence activities including photos, videos, the official jingle and song, please visit @IndependenceSlu41 and our official website on www.independence.lc. Contact us on independenceslu41@gmail.com, visit us on social media on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube @IndependenceSlu41
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From the Independence Secretariat