A sunset-lit Rawson Square encircled by Bahamian flags acted as the backdrop for the launch of the country's 40th independence celebrations yesterday evening.
It was the second ceremony of its kind ahead of the nation's Independence Day, which will officially be recognized on July 10.
It was on that date in 1973 when The Bahamas gained its independence just months after Her Majesty's government recommended to Parliament that the necessary legislation be passed.
From Bay Street yesterday, brass and steel instruments echoed the sounds of The Bahamas' national anthem.
Several business leaders, prominent members of Parliament, civil society luminaries and scores of students joined in tune with the words "Lift up your head to the rising sun, Bahamaland".
Before announcing the government's plans leading up to July 10, Prime Minister Perry Christie called on those gathered to remember the significant contributions of the country's nation builders and heroes.
He said Bahamians have an obligation to lift up their memories in order to ensure their achievements and stories can be recalled.
"As we pause to celebrate this 40th anniversary to recognize the people and history that brought us to the point, we must as a country begin to build a foundation for the 50th anniversary of our independence," Christie said.
"The work we do today must be aimed and projected for the 50th anniversary. We need to imagine what we want The Bahamas to be then.
"...I believe that part of what is right for our country on this independence journey is to record, preserve and honor our history and our culture.
"We have in many respects been negligent of our heroes and our history. It is vital that every Bahamian of every background know their history."
The prime minister said the words of Timothy Gibson, writer of the National Anthem 'March on Bahama Land', should resonate among Bahamians more than ever before. Those were, 'pledge to excel through love and unity, pressing onward, march together to a common loftier goal'.
Co-chairperson of the 40th Independence Anniversary Committee Charles Carter said yesterday's event sets the stage for the upcoming fares, festivals, concerts, exhibitions and special events that will continue into next year.
He said in the next few days, publications will be released to remind Bahamians of their marvelous heritage, icons and culture.
"These celebrations have just one real goal in mind," Carter said. "My generation needs to educate the next generation so that generation will feel about this country the way people of my generation feel about this country.
"In a real sense those of us who are my age, and I'll be 70 next month, can count themselves fortunate to have lived in The Bahamas when we lived in The Bahamas."
The prime minister added that a national honors system will come to fruition to recognize deserving Bahamians in a public award ceremony in the near future.
An intricate logo designed by local artists Kishan Munroe and Addis Hyler was unveiled and will support the theme 'bridge to the future, the journey continues'.
Following the ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Philip Brave Davis told reporters that Bahamians, particularly young Bahamians, have an opportunity to involve themselves in the saga of celebrations and truly learn what it means to be a Bahamian.
He said the government wants to play an intricate role in educating Bahamians about this nation's many heroes.
"The National Heroes Act and the National Honors Act will be brought into full force," Davis said.
"We are now discussing and identifying specific Bahamian honors that we hope to be awarded during this period."

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