Dominicans in Boston celebrate independence

Dominica Boston Cultural Dancers in action during the event

Although they are far away from home, Dominicans in Boston did not exclude  themselves from Dominica’s independence celebrations.

On November 10 about 250 Dominicans living in that American city gathered to celebrate the island’s 34th aniversary of independence from Britain.

Most of those who attended, were attired  in Dominica’s national wear.

The celebration, organized and hosted by the Dominica Indepedence Association (DIA), was held after the actual anniversary date to accommodate those returning from similar events in other North American states and in Dominica.

Those present were treated to a video address by Chief Cultural Officer, Raymond Lawrence, which was produced by the Government Information Service in keeping with this year’s theme: “Partnering for further Progress and Development.”

The national anthem was led by Mamah Joseph and Master of Ceremonies was Wilma Bellot Thomas (DIA member), who kept the crowd laughing with her keen sense of humor.

After dinner, a recognition award from the City of Boston was presented to Cuthbert Joseph for his ‘outstanding efforts in promoting the culture of Dominica both in and outside his community.’

Entertainment was provided by Dominica Boston Cultural Performers, a group headed by Terri-Anne Olivaccé Marie and by Children Dancers (Seekers of Knowledge group).  The event culminated with a fashion show of Wob Dwiyets made in Dominica, creole outfits designed and sewn by Yolanda Mason Shillingford and white spectacular wear created by Rita Labad.

One of DIA’s goals is to assist Dominica’s literacy program and the group has shipped barrels of books to the Roseau public library, Paix Bouche Primary School and most recently to Castle Bruce and Trafalgar Primary Schools.  DIA looks forward to partnering with other schools in the future.

Members of DIA are: Theo Drigo (Castle Bruce), Martha George (Paix Bouche), Rita Labad (Goodwill), Shakespeare Christmas (Castle Bruce), Yolanda Mason Shillingford (Goodwill), Edmund Tavernier (Tete Morne) and Wilma Bellot Thomas (Pottersville).

See photos below from the event.

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12 Comments

  1. ByDeBay
    November 20, 2012

    DIA supported the computer project which delivered a total of 60 computers to Newtown and Salybia Primary Schools in 2010.

  2. ?????
    November 20, 2012

    I must complement DIA for doing a good job keep it up proud Dominicans

  3. ?????
    November 20, 2012

    some groups and individual cause others will come back home and say what should be done but did not raisea finger to do anything for coming back to the community

  4. Anonymous
    November 20, 2012

    Keep it going. Great Job.

  5. DA for life!
    November 19, 2012

    Looking Good!!

  6. November 19, 2012

    great job guys, keep it going.
    CONGRATS

  7. PUSSINA
    November 19, 2012

    where my woman lisa white?

  8. mel
    November 19, 2012

    one thing Whitney really turn Dominican en lol ….Looking well Whits n Niks

  9. Tee
    November 19, 2012

    I like that! You can take them out of Dominica but you cannot take Dominica out of them! Way to go Dominicans in Boston!

  10. Reader
    November 19, 2012

    I was there and got to say that the event was fantastic! Great job DIA and thanks for the work that you guys do to promote Dominica in Boston and for helping Dominicans at home.

    On another note, all you doh hear de minister say enough books is laptop he want. Lol … still taking kix on that comment.

  11. November 19, 2012

    Typical dominicans, they do not comment on the good work but when is daybar and torrie, politics, and they want to crucify the PM they write tremendous amount of comment.My people will never change.

  12. November 19, 2012

    Great job, DIA it is always a bouquet to know that groups and individuals can give back to their community and country. That’s why i support their many fundraising.

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