As Saint Lucia gears up for its 46th Independence celebrations, all eyes will be on the highly anticipated National Independence Baton Relay, which is set to bring communities together in a display of unity and national pride.
Starting Wednesday, January 29, at the Dame Pearlette Louisy School in Babonneau, the relay will journey through all constituencies, connecting Saint Lucians at home and abroad.
“This is an event that resonates with us,” said Yasmin Steele, Chairperson of the National Independence Baton Relay, during Friday’s media launch. “It crosses the divisions of race, religion, cultural backgrounds, and even politics. We are celebrating just one thing: who we are as Saint Lucians.”
The Baton Relay, which spans nearly a month, will journey through all constituencies on the island, culminating in Castries Central with the grand finale – the Flag Raising Ceremony at the Derek Walcott Square, on February 21, the eve of Independence Day.
After the opening ceremony, the baton will travel to every constituency on the island. In addition to physical stops, the relay will feature virtual elements, bringing in Saint Lucians from the diaspora.
Steele said: “What I love about the Baton Relay this year is the involvement of students and farmers. It’s a holistic celebration. We’re setting up areas for farmers to display their work, and students from every school in Babonneau will be participating in one way or another. It’s a wonderful opportunity to build national pride, not just in adults but in our little ones.”
MP for Castries Central Richard Frederick said the event “bridges the gap between those of us here and our brothers and sisters abroad”.
“Persons in the diaspora use the Baton Relay as an opportunity to reconnect. It brings a sense of peace, tranquillity, and unity among our people,” he added.
Alongside the community events, there will also be displays of local talent, and even an international component. Taiwan is expected to contribute to the festivities on February 19 and 20.
Principal of the Dame Pearlette Louisy School, Etheline Leonce, said the involvement of young people in the relay was especially exciting.
“This is an opportunity to immerse our children in what makes us uniquely Saint Lucian. For them to see it, feel it, and be part of it; it’s something they’ll carry with them as they grow,” she said.
Main photo caption: Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre and a young student at the 2023 Independence Baton Relay. (FP)
