Hempstead celebrates Caribbean American Heritage Month and Guyana’s 60th independence anniversary
Eleven Caribbean nationals received Town of Hempstead citations at the annual observance, which also marked America’s 250th year.
HEMPSTEAD, United States. Flag-waving Caribbean nationals danced and celebrated at the Town of Hempstead’s annual Caribbean American Heritage observance on June 4, as the community paid tribute to Guyana’s 60th anniversary of independence and America’s 250th year.
Supervisor John Ferretti, together with Zahid Syed, executive director of the Department of Community Affairs, and host committee members Trudy King, Sherry Williams, Ingrid Jeannis Desire and Dr Beryl Williams, staged the cultural programme on the Dorothy Goosby Plaza at Hempstead Town Hall.
Eleven nationals were honoured with Town of Hempstead citations: Alana Mahato-Shakeer, Paulette Moore, Annette Trewick, Tilda Francis, Sandra Lindo, Pauline Deborah Noel, Windie Auguste, Maria Calderon, Rose October, Ameil Sloley and Beryl Williams.
Mr Syed, who was also master of ceremonies, conveyed greetings from Supervisor Ferretti, who acknowledged Caribbean nationals for bringing their culture and talents to the town. “We are proud to celebrate Caribbean heritage month in the largest and most diverse Township in America,” the message said.
“Many families have come from the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and other Caribbean islands,” Mr Syed said.
Keynote from Guyana-born advocate
The keynote speaker, Dr Clariona Griffith, an advocate, entrepreneur, former president of the Hempstead Chamber of Commerce and former trustee of Hempstead Village, is a native of Guyana. She recognised both anniversaries, describing two nations filled with history, culture, sacrifice and opportunity.
“Let us celebrate not only the anniversary of two great nations, but also the strength of the people who continue to build bridges between them,” said Dr Griffith, who also received a citation. “It is very important to teach the children our culture, our faith, our hard work, and to give back.”
An ‘America 250 Strong’ segment featured a colour guard led by members of the American Legion and performances by the Uniondale Show Choir, including “Lift Every Voice and Sing” and the “Battle Hymn of the Republic”. JROTC recruits from Hempstead High School also took part.
Music, dance and food
The Haitian American Student Association performed a classical folk dance choreographed by Windie Auguste. The programme also included Danza Folklorica, a poetry session by members of the Caribbean American Poetry Association, a Soca Gospel medley by Akeil Benn, a steel pan solo by DOMO and an Afro-Caribbean fashion showcase of designs from AJYI Variety store.
Veronica Spencer, executive producer of Wild ‘n Out and host of “MicHeals Music” on Island Zone Radio, announced an open call for dancers, comedians and musicians for the show’s “Brooklyn Live” event at Barclays Center on June 28, saying it was time for Caribbean nationals to shine.
A Tastes and Flavors showcase featured Caribbean food from restaurants in Elmont, West Hempstead, Uniondale, the Village of Hempstead, South Richmond Hill and Queens Village.
