The atmosphere at the Holy Family parking lot, located at 9719 Flatlands Avenue, was one of warmth that emanated not just from the sun that shone brightly throughout the day on Saturday, June 20th, but also from the camaraderie and kinship shared by the hundreds of people from the Caribbean diaspora, who gathered there to enjoy the Annual Caribbean-American Heritage Celebration: A Taste of the Caribbean, hosted by Assemblywoman Jaime Williams.
The area was plastered with the national flags representing many Caribbean islands, their vibrant colors — verdant green, blazing red, azure blue, sunflower yellow, gold and black – proud symbols of their Nation’s rich culture and dynamic history.
There were ample samples of great food – Oil Down, jerk chicken, curried chicken, pholourie, breadfruit, roti, coconut shrimp, rasta pasta, fish cakes, black rice – you name it. In addition, a bountiful supply of tropical drinks, which included sorrel, tamarind, mango and citrus mixes, were provided at the various booths scattered throughout the parking lot. Guests were also kept hydrated with slices of succulent watermelon and Sno Cones.
They also got a taste of each country’s history, diversity and traditions through many of the other products and artifacts that were displayed, as well as the entertainment that was provided. The celebration included pulsating calypso and reggae music by DJ Chinee and a live band called Mangolino; Big Drum rapping and dancing by performers from the Divine Explosion Arts Program (DEAP); cultural dance by Spice Generation Dance Company; and a special appearance by a team of Jab Jab from the Spice Isle. A staffer from Williams’ office also imitated Red Plastic Bag with his rendition of “Ragga Ragga.”
The event was cohosted by Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, State Senator Roxanne Persaud, Assemblywoman Monique Chandler-Waterman, District Leader Frank Seddio, the 69th Precinct Community Council and the Flatlands Civic Club, Inc.
A number of sponsors, including Millennium Development, Kings Plaza, the 69th Precinct, the Canarsie Merchants Association, Bical Auto Mall, Visit Canarsie, TriniJam, E.N.O.U.G.H., CERT, NHS Brooklyn, the Newton Foundation, Melting Pot, East Flatbush Village, DEAP and the Grenada Cultural Association, also contributed to the success of the event.
Williams who hails from the twin island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and Persaud who is from Guyana, both welcomed the Trinidad and Guyana Consulates who were present at the celebration.
“It’s all one Caribbean,” Persaud stated emphatically, as she greeted everyone.
“One voice. One people. One Caribbean,” Williams agreed.
