Flags, Pride, and Purpose: September Celebrations Begin in Belize

September is here and the unmistakable feeling of patriotism is everywhere. This year’s theme, ‘Stronger Together, Rising Forever,’ couldn’t be more fitting. Because if we’ve learned anything about building a nation, it’s that it takes all of us. But it’s more than simply waving flags or lining the streets for parades, September is a powerful reminder of who we are, where we’ve come from, and where we’re headed as a nation. It’s a time to reflect on the courage of our forefathers at St. George’s Caye, and to celebrate the bold step we took toward independence, one of the most defining moments in Belize’s history. Earlier today, right at the iconic Flag Monument, the Belize City Council hosted a brief but meaningful ceremony to kick off the celebrations. Mayor Bernard Wagner took center stage, reminding us that nation-building goes beyond big speeches or grand gestures, it’s also about the everyday contributions we all make.

 

Bernard Wagner, Belize City Mayor

“Today, under the majestic colors of our beautiful blue, white, and red, we stand together as one people to raise our sacred, national flag, as we really usher in the month of September, the month that reminds us of who we are. It reminds us where we came from and it reminds us of where we are going. September is more than just parades, it’s more than just concerts and celebrations. For us, September is a reminder of sacrifice, courage and nationhood. It is a national checkpoint and a time for renewal in every sense. It is the month we commemorate our forefathers’ resilience on the waters of St. George’s Caye and it is the month we celebrate the triumph of independence, one of the single most defining moments of our young history. This year’s celebratory theme which speaks to being stronger together, rising forever, could not be more fitting because if nation building has taught us anything, it is that it is everybody’s business. Whether you’re a student, whether you’re an artist, a farmer, a teacher, a Tik Tok influencer, or a leader in the community, your contribution matters, your contribution matters. No matter who or where you are, you have a role to play in shaping the Belize we all dream of.”