By Gerrino J. Saunders
Bahama Journal News Editor

Both The Bahamas and the United States of America celebrate their independence
during the month of July, while The Bahamas will celebrate its 52nd year of
independence next Thursday, July 10th, the U.S. is celebrating its Independence today,
July 4th, with lots of fanfare and of course with massive fireworks
displays at various locations.
Ahead of the actual celebration today, on Wednesday this week the U.S. Embassy
Nassau hosted a pre-independence event at John Watlings Distillery on Delancey
Street where Bahamians from all walks of life were invited including Governor-General Dame Cynthia Pratt and Prime Minister Philip Davis.
U.S. Charge D’Affaires Kimberly Furnish highlighted the strong bonds between
the U.S and The Bahamas.
“Nine million Americans visit The Bahamas every year. To my Bahamian
friends out there thank you for having us, we’re not always easy,” Ms. Furnish said. “Thank you for
working towards solutions to our shared challenges and help keeping each other
safe and prosperous.”
Prime Minister Davis also reaffirmed The Bahamas’ partnership, friendship and
cooperation with the U.S.
“Know that the people of The Bahamas celebrate with you not as spectators but as
partners who share in the vision of peace prosperity and progress. May your light
continue to illuminate pathways to prosperity for your citizens, for your partners
and for communities around the world who benefit from your commitment to
shared success.
“So tonight, I ask you to raise your glasses to shared prosperity mutual respect, to
partnerships that uplift all, and to the United States of America. Happy
Independence Day,” said the Prime Minister.
The U.S gained its Independence from Great Britain on July 4th , 1776, some 249
years ago today.