The Movement for Innovative Development of Dominicans in Antigua (MODEINDA) successfully orchestrated the 182nd anniversary celebration of Dominican Republic’s independence in St. John’s, Antigua, marking two decades of cultural preservation efforts since 2003. Under the leadership of President Manuel Melenciano Herrera, the organization brought together diverse community elements to create a vibrant celebration of Dominican heritage.
The extensive preparations involved months of coordinated effort, with rehearsals commencing January 6th and continuing weekdays for two months. The event featured multiple performance groups including traditional provincial representations by children aged 4-10, Batton Ballet for teens (11-18), Taínos group of mixed ages, children’s merengue dance, Alibaba group, and the Mangulina Group’s choreography.
Financial and logistical support formed the backbone of the celebration, with Melenciano contributing significantly as primary sponsor. His investments included costumes for seventy participants, refreshments and transportation during rehearsal months, accommodation and meals for nine artists, six airline tickets from Dominican Republic to Antigua, $11,000 for artistic groups, and $6,500 EC for stage complex, lighting, and live band setup.
The event enjoyed substantial institutional support, with Honorable Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Tourism Minister Henry Charles ‘Max’ Fernandez providing artist accommodations. Acting Chief of Agricultural Extension Ika Fergus supplied the ceremony venue, while Ambassador Lionel Max Hurst facilitated visa exemption approvals. Police commissioners ensured parade security from Yasco to Agricultural Extension Division with escort services.
Dominican Republic’s diplomatic representatives, including Ambassador Yolanda Alexandra Victoria Álvarez and Consul General Julio César Mateo Báez, provided both financial contributions and organizational support. Additional sponsors included Carolina Mejía ($3,000 EC), Lola Disco (half of return tickets for artists), Luz Melenciano ($650 EC), Yocasta Salon ($200 EC), Juan Trucking Services ($1,500 EC), and Joe Mike’s Restaurant and Casino ($1,700 EC plus stage equipment). Sky High Airline contributed three one-way tickets from Dominican Republic.
Local businesses demonstrated community solidarity through promotional t-shirt sponsorships: Media Luna Construction (100 shirts), Media Luna Radio Station (100 shirts), Media Luna Apartments (100 shirts), Health First Pharmacy (75 shirts), Fernando Taxi (50 shirts), and Banca La Perla (24 shirts), all distributed freely to the community.
The celebration notably featured collaborative elements, with MODEINDA inviting Alex Martínez’s group to present their artist during the festivities, demonstrating inter-group cooperation within the cultural community.