Preparations are underway for Saint Lucia’s 41st Independence celebrations which will be held under the theme “Now is the Time, Let’s Do This Together”. The launch of activities took place at the Government Information Service (GIS) studios on Jan 15.

Minister with responsibility for Culture and Creative Industries, Sen. Hon. Fortuna Belrose, said this year’s theme calls Saint Lucians to action, and is an extension of Independence 40.

Celebrations begin in February with a gospel concert, Mr. Independence Pageant, and Legacy Calypso show. Other activities include the Independence Creole Debate, the Independence Walk, Best of Saint Lucia Concert and National Independence Day Parade.

Chairperson of the Independence 41 Planning Committee, Hon. Jeannine Giraudy-McIntyre, called on the citizenry to participate in the various activities. President of the National Youth Council, Nyus Alfred, said the organization’s role this year is to inculcate a sense of pride and unity among the youth. Other youth activities include the Independence National Youth Parliament which takes place on Feb. 18, under the theme “The New Faces of Democracy.”