Washington, DC, (29 September, 2025) – On the 19^th of September, 2025, the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis proudly marked its 42nd Anniversary of Independence with a ceremonial flag raising at Philadelphia City Hall, organized by the Saint Kitts and Nevis Flag Raising Committee. The event was attended by nationals, friends of the Federation, and distinguished dignitaries from the City of Philadelphia and the wider Caribbean-American community.

During the ceremony, a special proclamation was presented on behalf of Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, officially declaring September 19, 2025, as Saint Kitts and Nevis Independence Day in the City of Philadelphia. In the proclamation, Mayor Parker urged “all residents to be aware of the many contributions of the Kittitian and Nevisian-American population of our city as well as helping make Philadelphia a welcoming city of choice in which to live, work, and prosper.”

Remarks were delivered on behalf of Her Excellency Jacinth Henry-Martin, Ambassador of Saint Kitts and Nevis to the United States of America, by Mrs. Adelcia Connor-Ferlance, Third Secretary at the Embassy. In her message, Ambassador Henry-Martin extended appreciation to the City of Philadelphia and the Flag Raising Committee for their continued partnership, noting that this year’s Independence theme, “Perpetual Progress – A Sustainable Future in View,” reflects the Federation’s commitment to resilience, sustainability, and shared prosperity.

The program featured participation by several city officials and community leaders, including representatives from the Mayor’s Office, the Office of Immigrant Affairs, the Mayor’s Commission on African and Caribbean Affairs, and members of Philadelphia City Council. The ceremony also included musical tributes, the playing of the national anthems of both the United States and Saint Kitts and Nevis, and the raising of the Federation’s flag.

Speaking to the significance of the occasion Mrs. Connor-Ferlance emphasized the Federation’s journey since independence in 1983, highlighting the resilience and achievements of Kittitians and Nevisians both at home and across the diaspora.

The event concluded with closing remarks by Ms. Kylla Herbert, Chairperson of the Saint Kitts and Nevis Flag Raising Committee, underscoring the community’s commitment to celebrating and preserving its heritage.

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