On October 27, Antiguans and Barbudans gathered in the seats of the Westchester Methodist Church in the Bronx and offered a standing ovation as they expressed gratitude for the 43 years that their country has been a nation.
The Antigua and Barbuda Consulate General in New York hosts the Independence Service every year, which has historically brought citizens from the tri-state region together to honor their heritage and enduring ties to a place they still call home while reflecting solemnly on the nation’s significant achievements.
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The Hon. Gaston Browne, Prime Minister, and the group of Antiguan and Barbudan clergy who oversaw the proceedings were among the political figures who gave motivational speeches throughout the ceremony. Ambassador Walton Webson, the Permanent Representative of Antigua and Barbuda to the UN, also offered wishes.
Prime Minister Browne praised the Antigua and Barbuda diaspora for their ongoing contributions to the nation’s development in his message, which was given on his behalf by Consular Officer Michelle Lightfoot.
He cited the pandemic as an excellent illustration of the deeply ingrained familial bonds that have helped the nation weather difficult periods and enable Antigua and Barbuda to have significant economic progress in the present day.
“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,” Browne remarked.
In her lecture, Rev. Elouise Hill-Challenger urged the group of Antiguans and Barbudans to consider the past and emphasize the numerous gifts that the country has received as a consequence of its 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.
She went on to say, “The leadership of Antigua and Barbuda has been one of action to encourage unity, unity that allows us to say,’ remember when.'” She urged individuals to utilize their many resources and skills in order to contribute to the new Antigua and Barbuda nation.
As the Consulate General works relentlessly to support the thousands of Antiguans and Barbudans who want to stay connected to their nation, even when they are away from home, Ambassador Webson characterized the job as a humble experience.
Ambassador Webson expresses gratitude by stating, “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.”
Evangelist Patricia Ralph, Rev. Dr. Ava Jolley, Rev. Dr. Dave Allen, Rev. Dr. Gordon Edwards, and Rev. Dr. Freddie Mason were among the all-Antiguan and Barbudan clergy who led prayers during the service. Attache at the Antigua and Barbuda Mission Jackley Peters also paid a heartfelt homage to the late Dr. Patrick Lewis, a former Permanent Representative of Antigua and Barbuda to the UN who died earlier this year.
To show gratitude on the nation’s 43rd anniversary of independence, the Antigua and Barbuda International Chorale, under the direction of the Very Rev. Belgrave Pelle, and the City South Steel Orchestra led the singing of patriotic songs during the flag-waving and musical celebration. During the annual Independence Gala held at the Glen Island Harbour Club on November 16, Antiguans and Barbudans in New York continue to celebrate.
