Sir Arthur Foulkes Governor-General, Commonwealth of The Bahamas, on the occasion of the official induction ceremony into The National Junkanoo Legends Circle on Thursday, 16 December 2010 at 7:00 p.m. Ballroom Government House, Nassau, Bahamas
It is a pleasure for me to host for the first time an Official Induction Ceremony for the National Junkanoo Legends Circle. The proud Bahamian tradition of Junkanoo, often taken for granted by some, is a unique gift that not only displays the artistic talents of our people, but also speaks to the strong cultural achievements and aspirations of the nation.
Centuries ago our ancestors, the newly freed slaves, used their precious “days off” at Christmas time to reaffirm for themselves their human worth and their cultural roots by recreating the festivals and ceremonies they left behind in Africa.
Through the years, this practice of Christmas festivals has come down to us in a most spectacular form, engaging thousands of Bahamians, the young and not so young, in the creation of magnificent costumes, intricate dance steps and exciting music.
These are the rich sights and sounds of modern Junkanoo.
It is now an event which also brings many visitors to our shores and has burnished the image of The Bahamas as more than just sun, sand and sea, but also as a place with a strong and unique cultural identity.
It is on the shoulders of a select group of tradition bearers that the present-day Junkanoo parades have been brought to their present impressive state. The Junkanoo Legends Circle is comprised of 24 such persons, whom we are proud to honour as custodians of our cultural heritage.
This evening, I am privileged to share in this ceremony that welcomes the six newest members to this prestigious circle. It is wonderful to be able to recognize individuals for what can only be described as a genuine record of accomplishment.
I am sure you all join with me in congratulating Jackson Burnside, Arthur Gibson, Leslie Johnson, Quinton Woodside and Ed McPhee. Congratulations and special recognition are also due to the family of Franklyn Knowles Mather. These distinguished gentlemen, who now constitute the Junkanoo Legends Circle, have made invaluable contributions to the growth and development of Junkanoo.
The Government and people of The Bahamas are proud to recognize and honour them as true cultural giants. We are indeed pleased and proud to bestow this honour upon them.
It is therefore with great personal pride that I officially induct into the National Junkanoo Legends Circle our 2010 honourees. Congratulations and best wishes.
