On Sunday, November 9th 2014, Dominica-American Relief & Development Association (DARDA) celebrated Dominica’s 36th Anniversary of Independence with a National Day Gala held at Eastwood Manor in the Bronx, New York.
Approximately 300 guests joined DARDA in its annual cultural extravaganza, which included entertainment such as traditional dances like Flirtation, Heel and Toe, and Bele performed by “Know Your Culture Dance Group” (under the supervision of Sabeniah George Mingo) and live music by a Jing Ping band.
Guests were encouraged to dress in National Wear, which was highlighted during DARDA’s traditional National Dress parade, and enjoyed dancing to good music provided by DJ Ron-B of “A Fu Awe Sounds International Entertainment”.
Also in attendance was His Excellency Vince Henderson, Permanent Representative and Ambassador to the United Nations – who briefly addressed the crowd, Dr. Carissa Etienne, Director of Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) – who was recognized for her contribution to her field and representing Dominica with pride, and former DEONJ Wob Dwiyet Shenell Edmonds and Madame of Madames Wob Dwiyet Northeast Justina Henderson.
DARDA is a non-profit organization aimed at helping the underprivileged of Dominica.
The National Day function is DARDA’s largest fundraiser and proceeds generated from the event will be donated to various worthy causes throughout Dominica.
They need to stop lying to the world. Vince Henderson was not there. How he gave a speeach when he was in Dominica. I was there. Everything else went well, but no one from the Dominica consulate nor any minister of government was there. I paid $85:00 US.
Yes, Yes, I am one proud grand Mama. My heartfelt gratitude goes out to my family (Baptiste) of St. Joseph especially, Nadia. These young kids were brilliant in showing off their Crucian/Dominican heritage. My little Dominique. Gracie and Van wooded the crowd..
Mr. Henderson was not present but Mr. Hubert Charles was.
You should go on DARDA’s facebook page and you will see and hear some beautiful music and dancing. Thanks to Rhona Lawrence (Miranda), you are the best and good job as well.
Please download them here if possible and also provide your website. Trust me everyone will love it. I know I did, you just wanna dance. Love my Dominica.