It was not until the 1950s, many years after the US gained its independence, that Belizeans pushed for their own independence and won it on September 21st, 1981. This year, Belize was celebrating its 44th year of independence, boasting its slogan: “Belize at 44, stronger together, rising forever.” This year also marks the year that the country begins changing its dollar notes from depicting the former Queen of England to showing off Belizean national icons like jaguars, turtles, and important historical figures like George Price, the “Father of Independence,” the leader who fought for Belize’s independence.
During Independence Day in Belize, the Belizean flag is everywhere: waving from houses, wrapped around people, flying in the backs of trucks, everywhere! The flag has a mahogany tree with two workers in the middle of it. The Belizean flag is the only national flag in the world that has humans depicted on it! The flag represents the diverse population and rich nature that the country hosts. At Carnival, the dancers dress up as birds, jungle animals, sea creatures, or other Belizean icons; it reminded me of the Mummers parade in Philadelphia, where I’m from. There is so much Belizean pride flowing during these celebrations, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to participate and look forward to next year’s celebrations.
