HONORING 48TH ANNIVERSARY OF BAHAMIAN INDEPENDENCE

On 2026-10-09, Representative Frederica S. Wilson (D-FL-24) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING 48TH ANNIVERSARY OF BAHAMIAN INDEPENDENCE" in the House.

HONORING 48TH ANNIVERSARY OF BAHAMIAN INDEPENDENCE

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 159 (Friday, October 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 159 (Friday, October 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E1049-E1050] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING 48TH ANNIVERSARY OF BAHAMIAN INDEPENDENCE ______ HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON of florida in the house of representatives Friday, October 9, 2026 Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, as a descendant of Bahamians, to commemorate the 48th Anniversary of Bahamian Independence and to pay tribute to its citizens [[Page E1050]] and Bahamian Americans living in South Florida and across the United States. Therefore, 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; and Whereas there are some 700 islands and 2,400 cays in total that make up the Islands of the Bahamas; and Whereas the proud people who, through uncertainty and tough economic times, remained steadfast and determined to build a brighter future after its hard-fought independence, showed great strength and unwavering will; and 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; and Whereas Bahamian culture is joy personified. It is a Junkanoo celebration, parading down the street. It's bold and colorful art. The culture is a fresh conch salad, a lively rake `n' scrape tune, and a welcoming smile from a stranger; and 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 48th Anniversary of this resilient, free and sovereign nation, and pay tribute to the wonderful people and descendants who make it great. ____________________