Ministerial Statement - Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport

Madam President, today I am pleased to stand before you to announce the exciting theme for Bermuda's Heritage Month and the Bermuda Day Parade in 2024. This year, we are celebrating the theme of "Culture Equals Energy." It is a theme that encapsulates the vibrancy, diversity, and boundless spirit of our unique island culture.

Madam President, Bermuda Day holds a special place in our hearts, reminding us of our heritage and the traditions that have been passed down through generations. This year’s theme "Culture = Energy" is a testament to the dynamic nature of our culture. Our culture is not static; it is constantly evolving, blending our roots with new traditions and infusing cultural elements into our everyday lives. We are Bermudians, and our culture is an ever-expanding tapestry, reflecting the diversity and the energy that defines us.

Madam President, the Bermudian ability to generate this endless cultural energy is why at a sports event, part of the excitement is in the spectators’ fashions, the intricacy of a camp set-up. It is why when our athletes compete in sports internationally, the whole island stops and becomes heated experts at the rules, no matter how new to us. We are fiercely proud of our teams - whether that be Cup Match, football, or County Games – and show the same level of enthusiasm when we see tremendous displays of artistry like the performers at Troika’s Sarafina, or follow the rumble of drums as the community did over the weekend when Gombey Warriors celebrated their 12th anniversary.

Madam President, when thinking about Bermuda Day, what comes to mind are the majorettes twirling their batons with grace and style; crowds moving to the rhythm of our beloved Gombey drums; the infectious energy of the participants; and the undeniable pride we feel for our island. There is something magical about our culture, something that urges you to leap to your feet and celebrate, dance, and bring the energy. And that's what we're going to do this Heritage Month!

Madam President, as we look forward to the Bermuda Day Parade and the Heritage Month celebrations, I'd like to remind the public that in 2024, Bermuda Day falls on the traditional date of Friday May 24th. I would also like to remind the public about the importance of community support in making this parade a success. Last year, we saw the tangible benefits of the newly-established Bermuda Day Fund, a fund that supports groups and individuals by offsetting the costs of costumes, truck rentals, and other expenses incurred when participating in the Bermuda Day Parade. This year, we must continue to support this cause, as it allows more people to get involved and contribute to the energy of our celebrations. Anyone wishing to support these participants can visit the Bermuda Community Foundation website at www.givebermuda.org/BermudaDayFund.

Madam President, I would like to urge individuals and businesses alike to donate to the Bermuda Day Fund. Whether you can give a little or a lot, every contribution makes a difference in preserving our traditions and strengthening our cultural ties.

Madam President, no matter how heated the community banter grows over the best goal, the nicest dive off peak, the cleanest shank dank there is a common dream we all share that imagines a Bermuda of possibilities, a land of endless opportunities to be better. It is through these moments of unity that our culture shines brightest; this is what the Bermuda Day and Heritage Month celebrations were established for. We saw this in May 2023 as participants and spectators alike danced in the rain together.

So, Madam President, as we prepare for Heritage Month and the Bermuda Day Parade in 2024 under the theme "Culture = Energy," let's embrace our culture, celebrate our traditions, and support one another. Let's make this a Heritage Month to remember, a month of unity, pride, and boundless energy.

Madam President, on Bermuda Day 2024, let's raise our air horns, dance, cheer, and bring the energy that defines our Bermudian spirit. Let's show the world that our culture is not just a reflection of our past but a beacon for our future. Let's make the 2024 Heritage Month and Bermuda Day Parade a celebration of "Culture = Energy" that will resonate in our hearts and minds for years to come.