https://antiguanewsroom.com/barbudans-want-discussions-on-their-own-national-flag/?swcfpc=1Mayor’s Office Commemorates 44th Independence of Antigua and Barbuda with Inaugural Flag-Raising Ceremony New York
celebrated the 44th independence of Antigua and Barbuda with an inaugural flag- raising ceremony at Bowling Green Park in Manhattan.
The event brought together various agencies from the Mayor’s office, showcasing the collective efforts in organizing this significant occasion.
Initiated by Antiguan-born Mrs. Lynelle Maginley-Liddle, NYC Commissioner of the Department of Corrections, the planning of the ceremony was spearheaded by US Diaspora Liaison, Dr. Dave Ray and the Consulate Affairs team, including Mrs. Joy Wehner, who also acted as the host of the proceedings.
The invocation was delivered by our own, Rev. Elouise Hill-Challenger, setting a solemn and celebratory tone for the gathering. Attendees heard remarks from prominent figures including Arthur Piccolo, Chairman of the Bowling Green
Association; John Matthews, Financial Secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Progressive Society; NYC Appellate Court Associate Judge, The Hon. Marsha D. Michael, also born in Antigua; Deputy Commissioner Dilipkumar Chauhan in
Mayor’s Office of International Affairs and Dr. Ray from the Consul General Office
of Antigua and Barbuda.
Additionally, the New York State Assembly team member, Mrs. Sandra Reid presented a citation to Dr. Ray and UN Ambassador, the Hon. Dr. Walton Aubrey Webson who spoke about the deep historic ties between New York and Antigua and Barbuda, tracing back to the 16th century, suppling sugar and indigo to New
york when the island was one of richest in the Caribbean under Dutch control before America gained its independence.
The ceremony featured Barbudan trumpeter Trevaughn Thomas and his team, adding a vibrant musical element to the event. The flag will remain on display for one to two weeks, and this ceremony is anticipated to become an annual tradition
celebrating the independence of Antigua and Barbuda. The Color Guards and Honor Guards with Corrections Law Enforcement were on hand to celebrate this event.
The event was well attended by many transplanted Antiguans and Barbudans,
alongside members of the CARICOM Consular Corps from Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Grenada, reinforcing a spirit of unity and shared heritage within the Caribbean co
