Dear Editor,
I am writing to express our disappointment and concern regarding this year’s Independence Ceremonial Parade and National Food Fair in Antigua and Barbuda. The events are scheduled to take place on a Saturday, which inadvertently excludes members of the Seventh-day Adventist community from full participation. Many of us are unable to attend or vend at the event due to our religious observance of the Sabbath.
This scheduling decision feels unfair and dismissive of the diverse faiths that form the fabric of our nation. Had the event been held on the following Monday, it would have allowed everyone, including Seventh-day Adventists, to participate and celebrate our independence together. Instead, the choice of a weekend day automatically excludes approximately 15,000 persons, which is unfair and inconsistent with the inclusive spirit that should characterize national celebrations.
The highlight of our independence celebrations should be an occasion that unites all citizens, regardless of religious beliefs. Events like these should be scheduled at times that are accessible to everyone, fostering unity and respect for all communities.
We would like to urge planners and organizers to consider these concerns for future celebrations, making sure that these significant national events are inclusive and representative of everyone in our beloved Antigua and Barbuda.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,
SDA Member
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The LAW is clear. Festivals Commission is NOT above the law.
If November 1st falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the LAW says that the celebration must be held the following Monday!!
Makhoul and her team are breaking the law!!!!
Editor,
The Public Holidays Amendment Act of 2019 and the powers of the Festival Commission are at war.
The Act states that: _”When the first day of November falls on a Saturday or Sunday the following Monday shall be a public holiday and *on that day shall be held all the official acts and activities in celebration of the anniversary of Independence.*_”
Notwithstanding this, the Festival Commission has scheduled the official Independence ceremonial parade for SATURDAY November 1.
Has the law changed in this regard? Is the Festival Commission above the legislative branch of government?
As I understand the Act, the ceremonial parade must be held on Monday 3rd November (since November 1 falls on a Saturday or Sunday). Are we no longer governed by the laws passed by Parliament and signed by the Governor General? What message are we sending when a group or body opts to disregard what is enshrined in our laws?
https://Laws.gov.ag/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/No.-23-of-2019-Public-Holidays-Amendment-Act-2019.pdf
Time to kick out the MPs and Senators and put the Festival Commission into Parliament instead???
Maybe there was an oversight here and should be adjusted to fulfill the law.
Times are truly different. I grew up in the SDA church, I was also a Pathfinder who took part in a number of these parades, so i find it strange and worrisome that a situation such as this would be of concern to the SDA, as a matter of fact I do believe we missed a few parades in the past because of this same reason.
I also recalled the days while many youngsters were out enjoying the many island festivities, we as Pathfinders would have been at a cookout or a possible hike, so I guess the SDA of today is of a different make up.
That’s something that was done wilfully smdh why some people are so badmindid like really? This can’t be happening then look for a boycott of the event there’s gonna be a poor turnout
The LAW IS THE LAW!!! The Ceremonial parade must be held on MONDAY 3rd November, 2025