B4 The Afro-American September 28, 2024 - October 4, 2024
Embassy of Belize celebrates 43rd anniversary of independence By Patricia McDougall Special to the AFRO
O
n Friday, September 20, 2024, His Excellency Lynn Young, ambassador of Belize to the United States of America, celebrated the country’s 43rd Independence Day at the Organization of the American States (OAS) - Hall
of the Americas in Washington D.C. Belize received its independence from Britain on September 21, 1981. Several dignitaries were there to participate in the festivities, including Ambassador Young, who is also a Permanent Representative of Belize to the OAS. The Assistant Secretary to OAS, Ambassador Nestor
Mendez, and his staff hosted the invited guests in style. The crowd was entertained with a live band and a DJ, who played some original folk punta rock songs from Belize. Meesha Steel, a Belizean vocalist, joined with Alex Colon for a tribute to Andy Palacio, a Belizean punta musician. The crowd danced around the room proudly waving Belizean flags to the sound of the Garifuna drums.
All photos by Patricia McDougall
Nestor Mendez (left) OAS assistant secretary general and His Excellency Lynn Raymond Young, Ambassador of Belize to the U.S., pose with their spouses,Margaret Althea Young and Elvira Mendez (right).
Cinnamon Bottaro, deputy chief of Mission Embassy of Belize D.C., speaks at the Belize Independence Day celebration.
Patrick Realiza (left), Kimberly Bassett, secretary of State for Washington, D.C., and Anthony Andrews, director of International Affairs and Protocol Officer for the D.C. Office of the Mayor, enjoy the Belizean Independence Day celebration.
Above, right: Ferida Fernandes (left) and her husband, Barbados Ambassador to the United States, Victor Fernandes celebrate Belizean Independence. Left: A Belizean flag is added to a sweet treat offered to embassy visitors.
Brandon Ramsay (left) and Eden Tadesse
Alex Colon-Oaniyan (left), Mesah Steele, Colwyn Mitchell and Clayton William entertain the crowd.
Kendall Belisle, advisor to the Assistant Secretary General at the Organization of American States, makes an appearance.
Attendees enjoy the festivities in honor of Belizean independence.
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