Nationals in New York turn out in their numbers to give thanks for 43 years of Independence
Only standing room remained as Antiguans and Barbudans filled the pews of the Westchester Methodist Church in the Bronx yesterday Sunday 27th October as they came together to give thanks for the 43 years of nationhood of the country of their birth.
The Independence Service is organized annually by the Antigua and Barbuda Consulate General in New York and traditionally brings nationals from the tri-state area to solemnly reflect on the significant strides of the nation, while celebrating their heritage and enduring connection to a land they still call home.
The service was filled with inspiring messages from the country’s political leadership, including Prime Minister the Hon. Gaston Browne and the collection of Antiguan and Barbudan clergy who presided over the proceedings. Also bringing greetings was Antigua and Barbuda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Walton Webson.
In his message, delivered on his behalf by Consular Officer Michelle Lightfoot, Prime Minister Browne sung the praises of the Antigua and Barbuda diaspora for the role they continue to play in the country’s development.
He pointed to the example of the pandemic as a prime example of the firmly entrenched familial ties that have allowed the country to survive tough times, making it possible for Antigua and Barbuda to enjoy substantial economic growth today.
“While my government’s policies account for the phenomenal growth, the contributions by the diaspora to their families, friends and commerce in the country were substantial,” he stated.
The sermon was preached by Rev. Elouise Hill-Challenger, who encouraged the congregation of fellow Antiguans and Barbudans to reflect on times past to highlight the many blessings that have fallen on the nation as a result of the country’s leadership.
“Look at Antigua and Barbuda now. We have evolved, we have progressed, we have grown, we have expanded, and we have moved from local to global. What a blessing!” Rev. Hill Challenger stated.
“The leadership of Antigua and Barbuda has been one of action to encourage unity, unity that allows us to say, ‘remember when’,” she continued, urging nationals to make use of their numerous skills and resources to tap into the fabric of the new Antigua and Barbuda.
Ambassador Webson described the work of the Consulate General as a humbling experience to be working tirelessly to serve the thousands of Antiguans and Barbudans who seek to maintain their connections to their homeland, even from abroad.
“Thank you for your support and we trust in God that we will continue to provide for you the type of support that you deserve and the high standards of service that we Antiguans and Barbudans are known for,” Ambassador Webson stated.
In addition, Attache at the Antigua and Barbuda Mission Jackley Peters gave a moving tribute to the late Dr. Patrick Lewis, a former Permanent Representative of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Nations, who passed away earlier this year.
Also leading prayers during the service was an all Antiguan and Barbudan clergy that included Rev. Dr. Ava Jolley, Evangelist Patricia Ralph, Rev. Dr. Dave Allen, Rev. Dr. Gordon Edwards, and Rev. Dr. Freddie Mason.
The Antigua and Barbuda International Chorale, directed by the Very Rev. Belgrave Pelle and the City South Steel Orchestra, led the singing patriotic songs in the flag waving and music filled celebration to give thanks for the country’s celebration of 43 years of Independence.
The celebration continues on November 16 when Antiguans and Barbudans in New York gather for the annual Independence Gala on at the Glen Island Harbour Club.
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Me ah look fuh see if me see waste ah time Franz. Maybe he got ketch trying to jump the turnstile to ketch the train fuh go cay you know he nar pay fuh nutten. Mussa bex he miss the appatunity fuh go an beg.
the minimum wage microphone sweet-sounding fool on Observer?
I love to see my people living in unity and harmony. What a blessed day this is. No politics. Just love for country. To God be the Glory great things he has done.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z_v8cUgBEJU
This is for Antigua and Barbuda. I-Wayne- Living In Love
It’s evident to see a large number of Antiguans and Barbudans living in New York celebrating the 43rd anniversary of Antigua and Barbuda’s independence. The overwhelming turnout highlights the pride and unity among the diaspora as they gather to commemorate this significant event. However, observing this celebration brings to light a troubling contrast; while Antiguans abroad experience a sense of camaraderie and belonging, many foreigners living here in Antigua and Barbuda face discrimination and mistreatment. Unlike the inclusive atmosphere abroad, where everyone can join in the festivities, foreign nationals here often encounter prejudice and are treated differently than locals, which diminishes the spirit of unity that independence should represent.
These bums don’t give a crap about Antigua, I’m not born here however my friends that live in other parts of the world refuse to come back here as this place is so backwards.
They need you to come back and help to move the country forward
I know most members of the target audience for this article would know when independence is, but shouldn’t it (Nov 1) have been mentioned somewhere in the article?
High praise for Antigua from those who ironically chose to make good their escape plans.
Why in new your?
Why not go home if youal so proud of your country?
As a student here in Antigua I agree that although there’s unity in the states, us foreigners get treated like crap here from most of the natives… They hike up prices for basic living and talk so nasty to us like they know we don’t have rights here…. It’s sad and most of us can’t wait to be done with school so we can leave. There are some nice ppl here but the majority outweighs the minority in rudeness
@RahRah. You have crossed the line here. As a non national, you don’t have to comment on everything. The posters on here are bearing out their politics and we understand that. But where are you coming from? We do not know and don’t care to. If you are enjoying it in Antigua, continue to do so and leave the rest to us Antigua and Barbudans. I do believe ABLP and their supporters are wrong but I wince when I see or hear non nationals jumping on us in affairs that should concern only us.
I hope ABLP supporters can agree with me on at least this, and on the eve of our independence.
@ Humanity and Equality. Antiguans and Barbudans celebrates the 1st November in remembrance of our fore parents who cut the wild tamarind and cassie trees to make this day possible.
Foreign nationals were not part of the sacrifices of my fore parents In addition, Bustamante,in 1967 declared “I have no time time for dealing with small islands and pulled out from the West Indies Federation; followed by the Guyanese, Trinidad and Barbados. Bustamante’s arrogance caused the federation to collapse.
The late VC Bird appealed to Antiguans and Barbudans at home and abroad to pay our dews to build our nation. Antiguans and Barbudans built our nation without the support from CARICOM countries.
However today, many of those CARICOM citizens whose governments wanted nothing to do with us in the 60s are relying on us for their daily bread, as well causing disruption to our peaceful way of living. Where were the foreigners when were struggling?
Happy independence, Wadadlians wherever you’re.
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