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This year’s Independence Parade has been dubbed as “more than a parade”.

The annual event, which is a highlight of the island’s Independence celebrations, will see a number of changes this year, but Barbadians have been assured that the traditional elements will be retained.

During a press conference today at the Barbados Defence Force’s St. Ann’s headquarters, Minister of Health and Wellness, Lt. Col. Jeffrey Bostic, who is also Chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Committee responsible for planning the parade, issued a call to all Barbadians to come out to the 52nd Anniversary of Independence Parade, on November 30 at Kensington Oval.

“We are looking this year to do something tasteful, something that will bring our nation together, something that will give our young people something to aspire to but also take into consideration that we are still in the BERT programme and that whatever we do we must be cognizant of the economic situation that exists within our country,” Lt. Col. Bostic emphasized.

The Minister pointed out that a number of changes would be implemented at this year’s event. These include a Message to the Nation by Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley; the attendance of 5,000 students; the launch of the Leadership Programme, with the pinning of badges on the Head Boy and Head Girl from every Primary and Secondary school; the We Barbados procession through Bridgetown; and the Prime Minister receiving her salute at National Heroes Square.

In addition, the Girl Guides Association, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary, will lead the march-off into Bridgetown, and life-sized portraits of Barbados’ National Heroes will be included in the parade.

Also attending the press conference was Minister of Creative Economy, Culture and Sports, John King, who urged persons to “become immersed” in the celebration. He disclosed that there would be participation from cricket legends, cultural ambassadors and persons who have positively represented the island in other disciplines.

“This is going to be a huge message for the rest of the world that says Barbados is back, that Barbados is a strong and united society looking to move forward. There is going to be a spectacle like none you have ever seen before and it is a good time for us as a nation to come together as we walk this walk,” the Culture Minister asserted.

Tickets for the parade will be available by next week and persons are encouraged to visit box offices as early as possible to secure their passes into Kensington Oval.

sharifa.medford@barbados.gov.bb

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