PHOTO: Minister Rennie
SOURCE: Liberian News Agency
By Dudu M. Kamara
MONROVIA (LINA) – The Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT) Ledgerhood J. Rennie has called on Liberians to take initiative of the celebration of the country’s rich history through the commemoration of the Bicentennial void of political affiliation.
Speaking Tuesday at a press conference to mark the official kickoff of the Bicentennial celebration held at the Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, Minister Rennie indicated that the effort of the Bicentennial commemoration is a national undertaking beyond race and political affiliation, citing that the occasion is intended to celebrate the country’s social diversity.
Rennie who is also Chair of the Bicentennial National Steering Committee, emphasized that the Bicentennial is all about Liberians and their enviable unique history on the continent of Africa.
According to Minister Rennie, the official commencement of the Bicentennial celebration will be on January 7, 2022, adding that the program is unique because it represents a period of the country’s history in 1820 when the journey began from New York in the United States by free men of color.
The Bicentennial National Steering Committee Head indicated that those free men of color embarked on the journey to Africa to a land they actually belong to but eventually unknown to them in 1820.
He narrated that finally, the free black men of color arrived on the shores of West Africa on January 7, 1822, specifically on Providence Island.
“Two hundred years after the formation of the country, we now have the zest to celebrate and commemorate what we have today as a country as we continue in our efforts to develop the country,” said Rennie.
“We call on all Liberians to join hands or whatever they can do in their respective towns, villages, communities in commemoration of the rich history and cultural heritage of ours. We should do so with pride and dignity because regardless of all of the things we went through and going through as a country and as a people this union remains together and stronger,” Min. Rennie noted.
Min. Rennie stated that they seek to involve and embrace all different sides and facets of Liberian society, because they are hoping to listen to broad base ideas and to incorporate positive vibes to commemorate and have friendly and peaceful historical Bicentennial.
He expressed delight that more Liberians are beginning to understand and play their respective parts individually and collectively in making the Bicentennial a success.
“We will be kicking off history and commemorate that journey that led us to a union strong after 200 years of freedom and Pan-African leadership.
However, the Minister of Health Dr. Wilhelmina Jallah cautioned the Public to follow all of the precautionary measures as a means of keeping COVID-19 at bay amidst the Bicentennial Commemoration.
The Liberian Health Minister maintained that COVID -19 is still on the rise in Liberia as it is around the world, disclosing that Liberia currently has 33 cases and numerous active cases.
She appealed to all to apply fully all of the precautionary measures noting that in order to enjoy the Bicentennial, Liberians must follow the health protocols and get vaccinated.