Something for everyone at Independence

By Marj Moore 29 May 2017, 12:00AM

As we head towards the first day of June on Thursday of this week to celebrate 55 years of Independence, let’s not forget that that is the underlying reason behind the many celebrations that will take place.

We could also take a quiet moment to reflect on the lives of citizens in other countries who do not enjoy the gift given to us at some cost and significant sacrifices by our forefathers.

It is also a time to receive the congratulations and good wishes from other leaders who have not only watched our country develop but assisted in that growth.  

This year, as well as our traditional ceremonies on Thursday, there are other special events being held, both big and small, which offer locals and visitors diverse opportunities to celebrate the freedom we so cherish.

The arrival yesterday of the Queensland Reds rugby team who will play against Auckland Blues team in an inaugural Super Rugby game on Friday evening is a nod to our country’s favourite sport. That both teams field more than 10 players in their squads who are Samoan, points to the talent and skills of our people.

The staging of the game in Samoa is perhaps finally a very small acknowledgement by the rugby-powers-that-be that Samoa has contributed significantly to the success and development of rugby as a world sport. 

In a bold and confident move to showcase a number of local businesses, products and to honour Samoa’s iconic women of fashion, (Le Independence Fashion Expo Convention) LIFE – Con is a three-day platform organized by EMD’s Kevin Schuster for creative and innovative small business development in the Samoa fashion industry advancing new marketing trends and distribution opportunities. This exciting event will give financial support to the Samoa Cancer Society.

And for those who prefer a more formal celebration, the Samoa Hotels Association is hosting a glamorous ball on Thursday evening. 

The arrival of New Zealand Prime Minister, the Honourable Bill English and his Samoan wife, Mary on Wednesday also underscores the ongoing link between our two countries since Independence was granted in 1962. In what seems to be a tradition, the New Zealand P.M. will be bestowed a matai title during his visit.

A must-have memento of the 55th Independence anniversary or simply some reading material for those moments of relaxation over the extended holiday, will surely be a copy of PALEMIA Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi of Samoa A Memoir with Peter Swain.

As Samoa’s longest serving Prime Minister, the book is said by Professor Stephen Levine to be “a fascinating biography and provides a stimulating, thoughtful, original and authoritative perspective on Samoa political life – from the inside”.

A safe and joyful 55th Independence celebration to everyone.

   

By Marj Moore 29 May 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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