COMMEMORATING THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF BAHAMIAN INDEPENDENCE

On 2026-08-03, Representative Frederica S. Wilson (D-FL-24) delivered a floor speech titled "COMMEMORATING THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF BAHAMIAN INDEPENDENCE" in the House.

COMMEMORATING THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF BAHAMIAN INDEPENDENCE

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 126 (Monday, August 3, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 126 (Monday, August 3, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E764-E765] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] COMMEMORATING THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF BAHAMIAN INDEPENDENCE ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Monday, August 3, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the great state of Florida, [[Page E765]] I rise today, as a descendant of Bahamians, to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of Bahamian Independence and to pay tribute to its citizens and Bahamian-Americans living in South Florida and across the United States. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, the Islands of the Bahamas became an Independent Commonwealth Country on July 10, 1973, after centuries of British rule; Whereas, the proud people who, through uncertainty and tough economic times, remained steadfast and determined to build a brighter future after their hard-fought independence, showed great strength and unwavering will; Whereas, today, The Bahamas has a thriving economy built around tourism and financial services; the tenacious and enduring spirit of the Bahamian people, and its rich traditions and culture; Whereas, Bahamians and Bahamian-Americans have made significant contributions to the United States through the arts & humanities, business, activism, local and national government, and remain an integral part of the South Florida Community; and Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, a Member of the United States House of Representatives, representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, and a person of Bahamian descent, am proud to recognize the 40th Anniversary of this resilient, free and sovereign nation, and pay tribute to the wonderful people and descendants who make it great. ____________________