Raphael Munnings (3rd from left) accepts a plaque from US Congresswoman Frederica Wilson (4th from left) on behalf of Ralph Munnings. Also shown from left is Rowena Poitier, Director of Culture in the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture; the Hon. Dr. Daniel Johnson, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture; Dr. Leon Higgs, Secretary General to UNESCO and Dr. Elwood Donaldson, Ambassador to UNESCO. (Photo/Aletha Cooper/Ministry of Education, Science and Technology)

The sounds of jazz permeated Pompey Square in downtown Nassau as The Bahamas celebrated its 3rd International Jazz Day, May 2nd.

The Royal Bahamas Police Force band, various high school bands and other local bands performed jazz selections throughout the day and into the evening hours.

The Hon. Dr. Daniel Johnson, Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture said the tune of jazz adheres to the overall structure of Bahamians as a community. “It is a true reflection of the ideal democracy, unique voices that we have as people of color,” he said.

Among the audience was US Congresswoman Frederica Wilson; Rowena Poitier, Director of Culture; Rowena Bethel, Director of the National Insurance Board; Dr. Leon Higgs, Secretary General to UNESCO; Dr. Elwood Donaldson, Ambassador to UNESCO; Bahamian entertainers and passersby. The event was sponsored by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and UNESCO.

Legendary saxophonist Ralph Munnings from Grand Bahama was recognized for his contribution to the development of jazz during the ceremony.

By Kathryn Campbell, Bahamas Information Services