The Office of the Governor General staged a National Flag Raising Ceremony on July 1, 2025, kicking off a week of activities leading up to the country’s 52nd Independence Anniversary on July 10.

Under the auspices of the National Independence Secretariat, the tradition-laden ceremony was held on the upper parking lot, Government House, situated on Mount Fitzwilliam.  

In attendance were, Her Excellency, the Most Hon. Dame Cynthia A. Pratt, Governor General of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas; Her Excellency Leslia Miller-Brice, Chair, National Independence Secretariat; Mr. Jack Thompson, Secretary to the Governor General; and staff members.

The Master of Ceremonies, Steve Pennerman led the Flag Raising Ceremony Commitment Statement, which basically thanked God for 52 years of Independence.   It also explained the meaning of the Flag colours:

The Black triangle symbolizes the strength, vigor and force of the Bahamian people. The golden stripe signifies the sun, the sand, and the abundance of natural resources in the country, and the two aquamarine stripes represent the waters of The Bahamas.

The Flag was then hoisted by the Honour Guard, followed by the playing of the National Anthem, March On Bahamaland.

Other staff members participating in the ceremony were Mr. Thompson who brought the welcome remarks; Karen Rolle, Acting First Assistant Secretary, performed the invocation; and Cleomi Turner, Under Secretary, the Vote of Thanks.

The ceremony was followed with a Breakfast Reception comprising steamed sausage and yellow grits, tuna salad, chicken souse, johnnycake, and tropical drinks.

National Flag Day was observed throughout the country, with flag raising ceremonies, and enjoying and celebrating things Bahamian.

The 52nd Independence Anniversary is being held under the theme, “Together We Rise”.

By Lindsay Thompson/Bahamas Information Services

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