In a historic display of diplomatic camaraderie and cultural celebration, New York City Hall’s Mayor’s Office orchestrated the inaugural flag-raising ceremony at Bowling Green Park in Manhattan on December 1, 2025, commemorating the 44th independence anniversary of Antigua and Barbuda. The event symbolized the strengthening of international relations and honored the significant Caribbean nation’s sovereignty.
The ceremony, meticulously organized through the collaborative efforts of multiple mayoral agencies, was conceived by NYC Commissioner of the Department of Corrections, Mrs. Lynelle Maginley-Liddle, an Antiguan native. Operational execution was led by US Diaspora Liaison Dr. Dave Ray alongside the Consulate Affairs team, with Mrs. Joy Wehner serving as the event’s host.
Reverend Elouise Hill-Challenger commenced proceedings with a solemn invocation, establishing a reflective yet celebratory atmosphere. Dignitaries delivering addresses included Arthur Piccolo, Chairman of the Bowling Green Association; John Matthews, Financial Secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Progressive Society; and The Hon. Marsha D. Michael, NYC Appellate Court Associate Judge also of Antiguan heritage.
Deputy Commissioner Dilipkumar Chauhan from the Mayor’s Office of International Affairs and Dr. Ray from the Consul General Office of Antigua and Barbuda provided additional remarks. The New York State Assembly delegation, represented by Mrs. Sandra Reid, presented an official citation to Dr. Ray in recognition of his diplomatic contributions.
UN Ambassador The Hon. Dr. Walton Aubrey Webson delivered a historically significant address, tracing bilateral relations between New York and Antigua and Barbuda to the 16th century. He highlighted the islands’ former status as one of the Caribbean’s wealthiest territories under Dutch control, supplying sugar and indigo to New York prior to American independence.
The ceremony featured vibrant musical performances by Barbudan trumpeter Trevaughn Thomas and his ensemble. Color Guards and Honor Guards from Corrections Law Enforcement provided formal honors, while the national flag of Antigua and Barbuda will remain displayed at the park for one to two weeks.
The event attracted substantial attendance from the Antiguan and Barbudan diaspora community and members of the CARICOM Consular Corps, including representatives from Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Grenada. This gathering fostered a powerful sense of Caribbean unity and shared heritage, with organizers confirming intentions to establish the ceremony as an annual tradition.