And going back now to yesterday's Garifuna Settlement Day Celebrations in Dangriga, it was full of dancing, drumming and ceremony. Here are the highlights from the speeches at the event.
John Briceno, Prime Minister
"We are here to celebrate Garifuna settlement day, a day of profound significance that honors and uplifts the vibrant culture rich history and resilient spirit of the Garifuna Belizeans everywhere. As we come together let us take a moment to reflect on the invaluable contributions of the Garifuna to the broader Belizean identity, the Garifuna people with their distinct customs, language and traditions are an integral part of the tapestry that makes up Belize, your ancestors who are indeed our ancestors who were forcibly removed from their homeland and endured tremendous hardships have gifted us a legacy of resilience, strength and cultural richness that continues to strive today. A culture characterized by the unique language, music, dance and culinary traditions."
Tracy Panton, Leader of the Opposition
"This years theme, Garifuna moving forward, honoring tradition, embracing change strengthening identity is more than a celebration slogan. It is a true reflection of the Garifuna spirit, a spirit defined by resilience, courage, innovation and unwavering commitment to our cultural perseveration, over 220 years ago in 1802 the Garifuna people arrived on the shores of Belize after an arduous and painful journey but they did not arrive defeated, far from it. They arrived determined, they arrived faith filled and they arrived carrying not only their families and their belongings but a heritage of unbreakable hope with coconuts and cassava stems, drums and their sacred identity they built homes and nurtured families and planted seeds of a cultural legacy that has enriched Belize for generations."
A Scare On Settlement Day In Culture Capital
And while the spirit was celebratory throughout the south, there was at least one unfortunate incident. This Chevy Equinox driven by well known sports coach Stanley Jordan Reneau reversed into a crowd at what looks like an area around Alejo Beni Park in Dangriga town. The crowd scattered and a few were hit but there are no reports of serious injury.
And, in another scary accident in Belmopan today a man was flung off his motorcycle on the Ring Road. A vehicle making a left turn did not clear traffic and drove into the cycle's lane causing the cyclist to catapult into the air. We do not know the extent of injuries at this time.
19th Saw Drums And Dancing In Dangriga
And that's all we have for you on 7News tonight. We leave you with scenes of yesterday's Settlement Day festivities in Dangriga Town.
