Sigh, yes its that time again… Ex
citement time! The celebration of the 39th anniversary of Grenada’s independence here in Toronto is quickly approaching. Last night marked the second meeting of the recently formed Grenada Independence Planning Committee (GIPC) under the direction of Consul General, Jenny Gumbs and the energy in the room was palatable! (For more reasons than one, lol!)
We are a celebratory people, we revel in our accomplishments and take pride in sharing our unique brand of patriotism with the world. The committee features representatives from several active Grenadian organizations in Toronto along with other interested individuals. This year’s committee in particular boasts of several amazing young Grenadian professionals who are fired up about planning an executing an amazing set of events to mark our entrance into the world of self-governance.
As per tradition for we are a praying, God fearing people, the month celebrations will commence with a Thanksgiving service on Sunday February 3rd, 2013 (Location:TBA) for we believe that in all things and at all times we must put GOD first and foremost. This event will be punctuated by sweet patriotic
nation songs rendered by our resident Grenadian choir, ‘La Grenade Musical‘ led by former National Folk Group lead singer, Ms. Paula Green.
La Grenade Musicale, Independence Church Service 2012
From there on February 6th, 2013, the National Flag of Grenada, Carriacou & Petite Martinique will be hoisted at Toronto City Hall in a POIGNANT mid-day ceremony officiated by Consul General Jenny Gumbs, representatives of Government and members of the diplomatic corps. The flag will remain at mast for 24 hours. The flag raising ceremony is traditionally followed by a reception at the Grenada Consulate Office (930-439 University Avenue) featuring mouth-watering Oil-down, Grenada’s national dish along with several other Grenadian delicacies and treats.
Now that the official parts of the celebrations are over the fun will kick into high gear, with a Literary Night event on Sunday February 10th, 2013. This event, the brain child of members of Spice Youth Toronto Community Initiative and now moving into its 3rd year, aims to showcase the mastery of our creative literary talents. Featuring performances and readings by our poets, singers, actors, fashion designers, photographers and of course our writers, youth as well as mature, set amid a plethora of books displayed on stands and tables around the room, this event is a crowd favorite.
On February 16th, 2013 the Grenada Association (Toronto) will host under the auspices of the Consulate General of Canada at Toronto, The Independence Gala Event. Dance the night away in the most elegant of surroundings to the pulsating sounds of Grenadian and Caribbean music.
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Then its time to bring down the curtains on the celebrations in fine Grenadian style! The month of activities will culminate with an exciting SHOWCASE of Grenada on Sunday February 24, 2013 ;- Cuisine, Culture, Beverages, Spices, Natural products, arts, craft, places to go, things to do…..All on display offering patrons, Grenadians and friends of Grenada alike the opportunity to experience — The Isle of Spice in all her glory and colour!
To all Grenadians residing in Toronto, this is an exciting opportunity to participate in something that showcases our heritage. There are several ways you can participate. If you are interested in bringing life through planning, designing etc to all the wonderful events mentioned above send an email to info@grenadaconsulate.com with the text ‘Grenada Independence Planning Committee’ in the subject line.
If you are a corporate company or business person who wishes to sponsor any of the events mentioned above, send an email to info@grenadaconsulate.com with the text ‘Sponsor Independence Activities’ in the subject line.
Or if you are simply homesick, then come join us at any one of these activities…We promise you an authentic slice of Grenada in Toronto. See you!