Plans to celebrate one of St. Lucia’s Flower Festivals were set in motion earlier today when the Cultural Development Foundation convened the first in a series of meetings with La Woz groups from around the island. The forum was attended by representatives from Choiseul, Belle Vue, Desruisseaux, Monchy, Laborie, Castries Central, Mon Repos and Aux Lyons La Woz groups who came eager to discuss the development of a society, which forms an integral part of their lives.
Items on the agenda included discussions based on past celebrations with a view to assessing strengths, weaknesses, opportunities that can be capitalized on and challenges which hinder the development of the festival.
The passionate group lamented the lack of participation by the youth, a vibrant and talented section of the society, needed to safeguard St. Lucia’s cultural heritage. This non-interest, according to attendees is due largely to the fact that the portrayal of the tradition is not sufficiently attractive and that its relevance is unclear. The zealous gathering were frank in their critiques and made suggestions which they hope when implemented, will bolster community participation thus resulting in the creation of a national consciousness and appreciation for the rich historical conventions that distinguish us as Saint Lucians.
It is expected that the annual celebration, commemorated on August 30th, will showcase the flower festival in captivating and innovative ways which will interest the Saint Lucian community as well as those who visit our shores with the hope of finding a truly unique experience. Citizens are encouraged to participate in activities leading up to the grand celebration as well as those which will follow.