This year’s independence celebrations are being held under the theme ‘Every Hand Come Build Our Land.’
As part of activities to commemorate the 31st Anniversary, students across the country had a chance to showcase their creative expressions at the Schools’ Independence Rally, which took place on 26th October at the Victoria Park. The showcase focused mainly on the indigenous forms of Vincentian Culture.
Other activities for Independence Day included the College and Career exhibition, the Girls High School Centenary Lecture series, and agricultural exhibitions, among others.
The traditional live radio and television messages were delivered by Sir Frederick Ballantyne, Governor-General of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph E. Gonsalves, as well as Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Arnhim Eustace of the New Democratic Party.
A congratulation message was also sent by US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, on behalf of President Barack Obama.
Clinton’s message stated, “I congratulate the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines as you celebrate 31 years of independence, this 27th October. Our two nations are united by a shared commitment to advancing democracy and human rights as we work to build a brighter future for all our people.”
The 105 square miles nation obtained its Independence from Britain in 1979.
Since then, the multi island state has seen at least five governments. The first was under Milton Cato, who saw his St Vincent Labour Party (SVLP) to independence, winning the first post-independence election in 1979.
Miyvue.com congratulates St Vincent and the Grenadines on its 31st Anniversary of Independence.