Government’s grandstanding attempt to reorganise the annual Junkanoo parades into a paid event has led to the loss of more than $1 million in scarce public funds.
Without even touching on the pros and cons of the various contracts and expenditures that were made by the Minister of Sports, we can say with some certainty that the less tampering by politicians with our national past-time the better.
Junkanoo is a natural expression of the people, not a fabricated event. Mardi Gras in New Orleans is another traditional holiday celebration, often known as “the biggest free show on earth”. Mardi Gras ‘krewes’ are the equivalent of our Junkanoo groups, whose members pay dues to support their activities.
Brazil’s pre-Lenten Carnival is organised by the traditional Samba schools, which are actually neighbourhood associations that provide a range of community services to members.
Let’s regard Junkanoo as a major draw for visitors, generating revenue indirectly. And while we should do all we can to facilitate and support the parades, turning Junkanoo into an over-regulated spectator sport is not a good idea.
Editorial, The Nassau Guardian
