Fireworks and flagraising for Independence
The September Celebrations culminated this week in Independence Day celebrations. On Monday night there was the usual reception at the House of Culture, formerly the Government House, with entertainment by various cultural groups. This was followed by the flag raising ceremony at the courthouse wharf and fireworks out over the harbor. The next morning the scene shifted to Belmopan for the official ceremonies on the steps of the National Assembly. School children lined the approach to greet the Prime Minister Said Musa and other dignitaries. The venue for the speeches may have changed, but as usual the Leader of the Opposition and the Leader of the Government both had their say on Independence and what lies ahead.
Dean Barrow, Leader of the Opposition, U.D.P.
“Let us practice the politics of inclusion. Let us promote the policies of mutual respect and social solidarity. Let us empower and heed civil society. Let us advance the agendas of women and youth. Let us attack the problem of persistent poverty. Let us re-orient the training of our human resources. Let us prepare for full, vigorous and prosperous participation in the knowledge economy and the world of information technology.
If on this day we can sincerely declare that as a people we will endeavor to do all this, then the notes of pride and congratulations will be properly struck when we say to ourselves and to one another, Happy Birthday Belize.”
Said Musa, Prime Minister
“We are still in the process of building our nation and of perfecting our democracy. It is a long and difficult process, one that can only succeed if we are united in respect of fundamental principles of justice and human rights. So let us all make a firm birthday resolution to work together, to make our nation Belize more peaceful and more democratic and more just.
And let us celebrate Belize, Mother Nature’s best kept secret with the most spectacular Barrier Reef in the Western Hemisphere where ancient Maya temples rise majestically above and mysterious caves like cathedrals, lie hidden beneath — a land of mystical beauty.
Today I call on all Belizeans to reflect on what our national anthem says about our Belize, “nature has bless thee with wealth untold”. And let us reflect on the value of what, with all the shortcomings, we as a people have achieved. Celebrate Belize the nation we are making, a community of diverse races and cultures, showing a remarkable tolerance with a common destiny. Happy Independence Day to all. Viva nuestra independencia. Viva Belize.”
