On the heels of Saint Lucia’s 38th Anniversary of Independence, the island continues to celebrate its achievements through the years with the recognition of some of its national symbols.
In a Press Release from the Folk Research Centre, the organisation made the following statement:
“On 1st March 1967, the island of Saint Lucia gained Associated Statehood with Great Britain. It was on this day that the Island’s flag designed by Sir Dunstan St. Omer was hoisted for the first time. The National Anthem, “Sons and Daughters of Saint Lucia”, words written by Father Charles Jesse and music composed by Sir Leton Thomas was also sung for the first time. The Coat of Arms designed by Sydney Bagshaw was also adopted for official use. It carried the motto, “The Land, The people, The Light.”
The National Archives together with the Folk Research Centre, the Governor General, as Chairperson of the Nobel Laureate Committee, Mr. Leton Thomas and the St. Omer family will be celebrating this momentous 50th Anniversary of the use of these special symbols at the National Archives, Vigie on Wednesday March 1st at 10: 00 am.”
The mid-morning activity scheduled for Vigie on Wednesday, March 1st is limited by invitation due to the capacity of the facility. The programme will include tributes to the late Sir Dunstan St. Omer – the designer of Saint Lucia’s national flag as well as to Father Charles Jesse – the author of Saint Lucia’s national anthem. Director of the Folk Research Centre, Mr. Hilary La Force will deliver the feature address on the theme; The Saint Lucia Flag – symbol of national identity, pride and unity.
Students of Primary and Secondary Schools from the North of the island will also be in attendance, all bearing flags which will be flown during a special Flag Raising Ceremony.