The Valley, May 8, 2018……The month of May is traditionally celebrated by all Anguillians as a time to reflect on our history of resilience and revolution, and our ongoing resolve to build a better future for ourselves and our children. A group of Anguillians has made it their mission to forge a new sense of commitment and solidarity, by reminding us of all that we share, giving thanks to those who fought and paved the way for us, and building a brand new Anguilla on the foundation that has been laid. Central to their purpose is the belief that Anguilla is at a crossroads today, a defining moment in our journey. Hence the importance of understanding the richness of our history, acknowledging that we were birthed out of abandonment and rejection, but recognizing that we rose above those circumstances, creating a resourceful, resilient, independent, Proud, Strong and Free people.
The “Proud, Strong and Free” Empowerment Campaign launches on Friday, May 18, at 7:00 PM at Royal Caribbean Hotel in Little Harbour. This very special evening marks the perfect celebration leading up to Anguilla Day, a feast of music, theater, fashion and the arts.
The evening begins with a cocktail reception with food, drinks and music provided by Took n The Boys. The highlight of the evening will be a special performance of the theatrical production “For The Want of Ordinary Conveniences” – The Spirit of the Anguilla Revolution, written and directed by our own acclaimed playwright Felix Fleming.
The play is based on the historic Fourth Petition, the 1958 appeal made to Governor of the Leeward Islands requesting him to “make every exertion which lies in your power to bring about the dissolution of the present political and administrative association of Anguilla with St Kitts”, accompanied by the warning that “A people cannot live without hope for long without erupting socially; and it is because the people of Anguilla prefer petition to eruption that we now implore Your Excellency to have Anguilla created a grant-aided colony..…. free of St Kitts politics whose avowed intent it is to withhold from Anguilla even the ordinary amenities of modern civilised life.
A powerful presentation by T. The Poet, T’ahara Niles, will address the unity and commitment to the vision that fueled the success of the Anguilla Revolution, reminding us all of the journey we have taken, and the sacrifices of our forefathers. A clarion call for Anguilla to NOW come back to that place of unity where we can truly build A Brand New Anguilla, ending the divisions that plague our nation, rounds out this inspirational and enjoyable portion of the evening.
The festivities continue with Runway Fashions by leading Anguilla and Caribbean designers, featuring Anguilla’s colours and trendy African wear. Prizes for attendees with the most stunning outfits will be awarded in the following categories — the Anguilla Princess! African Queen! Hot Gyal and T’Challa. Workout Dance Music follows with Boss n the Horse Power Band, guaranteed to keep everyone on their feet till the wee hours of the morning.
The host for the evening’s events is Toni “Bella” Blair (Poonchie), the multitalented actress/singer/songwriter/producer, a Jamaican Princess and Instagram sensation, with a following of 126,000 and 103,731.
The “Proud, Strong and Free” campaign will continue with special events taking place throughout the year. Stay tuned! For more information visit…….Facebook Page — Anguilla:Proud Strong and Free.
– Press Release
