Barbados celebrated its 55th year of independence in one of the most inspiring ways possible- by declaring further independence. On November 30th, the country officially removed Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state and swore in Dame Sandra Mason as its first president.
The monumental ceremony was attended by a few significant personalities including Prince Charles of Wales, famous cricketer Sir Garfield Sobers, and world-famous Barbadian singer, actress, fashion designer, and businesswoman Rihanna who was declared a national hero.
The ceremony included the removal of the British monarch’s Royal Standard Flag, and pledges of allegiance to the country from national figures including the Honorable Prime Minister Mia Mottley.
The Prime Minister described the moment as “seminal” and expressed her pride of leading Barbados away from its colonial past.
Prince Charles also addressed the nation in his speech recalling the “appalling atrocity of slavery” that the island suffered and expressing his hopes for a more prosperous future. He also delivered warm wishes of peace and prosperity on behalf of the Queen.
Barbados was one of England’s first slave colonies under British control and was first occupied on 1627.
Today the island -which has a population of 285,000 people- boasts of sustainability, economic stability and vibrant culture, altogether making it one of the most popular and prominent Caribbean Nations.
