Since its inception five years ago by Local Government Minister and MP for Central Castries, Richard Frederick, the Independence Baton Relay has become a celebrated nationwide event, fostering community spirit and highlighting the island’s legacy of outstanding achievers.
On Wednesday, the launch of the 47th Independence Baton Relay brought together government officials, including Prime Minister and Castries East MP Philip J. Pierre, community representatives, students, and performers at the newly renovated James Belgrade Multi-Purpose Court in Marchand, marking the start of this annual event.
The festivities commenced with an inspiring ‘Spoken Word’ performance by a three-member poetry group and accompanying band from Entrepot Secondary School.
“Unity underpins democracy, and for democracy to thrive, we must understand our choices,” Minister Frederick stated, encouraging citizens to participate in the Baton Relay as the nation prepares for another Independence celebration.
He also announced plans for an innovative app that will track the miles covered across the 17 constituencies, noting that interest from the diaspora has been significant, with people eager to contribute.
Prime Minister Pierre emphasized the community’s rich history, pointing to a wall poster depicting local heroes who have significantly contributed to Saint Lucia’s development.
PM Pierre proudly stated: “We are a community that has a rich history…as you can visualize on the wall poster (outside the Mindoo Phillip Park) portraying some of the heroes from this constituency, and people who contributed to the well-being and development of Saint Lucia.”
The event featured performances, including TC Brown’s popular Kaiso number ‘Where Are They Now,’ which paid tribute to the unsung heroes of the community.
Following the ceremonial ribbon-cutting, Minister Frederick passed the symbolic baton to MP Pierre, who made rounds within Marchand Grounds before handing it to Rupert Polius’ daughter, recognizing Polius as a prominent sportsman who represented Saint Lucia in cricket and football.
The baton continued its journey to award-winning reggae artist and global humanitarian advocate Taj Weekes and then to another Marchand resident, Eddie – DJ and events coordinator; and passed on to a relative of notable educator Irene Desir, who dedicated 24 years to community service, before the baton relay continued uphill and eastwards out of the community.
The launch underscored the Baton Relay’s role as a familiar symbol of national pride, honouring individuals whose contributions have shaped community and national development.
Minister Frederick described it as a deep and meaningful element of Saint Lucia’s Independence observances, reflecting a desire to recognize often-overlooked contributions to nation-building.
Planning for the event began in 2021, with Frederick emphasizing the importance of recognizing unsung heroes known primarily within their localities but not by the wider populace. The initiative facilitates the preservation of lived histories, helping Saint Lucians connect with stories and experiences that might otherwise be forgotten while strengthening national identity.
This year’s Baton Relay will culminate in Canaries on February 21st, as part of the activities leading up to Independence Day celebrations.
[R. A]