Bahamas Junkanoo 2015/16 – Chinphotographics
I am indeed impressed with the strength and tenacity of the Bahamian people – those who participated in the parade and those who came out in their droves to watch, cheer, dance and support. Being the main symbol of the African past as well as national identity, Junkanoo in the Bahamas flourishes and lives on in the consciousness of every Bahamian at home or away. Where is this cultural identity in our other Caribbean countries? Other countries such as Trinidad and Jamaica have over-commercialized their carnival parade to the point where it has become less about rituals, national identity and pride and more about partying and making money. These carnivals have become a huge parade of people scantily clad (some wearing costumes), gyrating on each other, getting drunk and “having a good time”. Junkanoo in the Bahamas has compressed the celebration of family, tradition, rituals, and national identity into one colourful event that showcases the true pride of the people on Boxing Day and New years Day.