[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 152 (Thursday, September 24, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E983]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING BAHAMIAN INDEPENDENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. FREDERICA S. WILSON

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 24, 2026

  Ms. WILSON of Florida. Mr. Speaker, from the 24th District of the 
great state of Florida, I rise today, as a descendant of Bahamians, to 
commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Bahamian independence and to 
pay tribute to its citizens and Bahamian-Americans living in South 
Florida and across the United States. I include in the Record the 
following proclamation:

       Whereas, the Islands of the Bahamas became an Independent 
     Commonwealth Country on July 10, 1973, after centuries of 
     British rule; and
       Whereas, the proud people who, through uncertainty and 
     tough economic times, remained steadfast and determined to 
     build a brighter future after its hard-fought independence, 
     showed great strength and unwavering will; and
       Whereas, today, The Bahamas has a thriving economy built 
     around tourism and financial services; the tenacious and 
     enduring spirit of the Bahamian people, and its rich 
     traditions and culture;
       Whereas, Bahamians and Bahamian-Americans have made 
     significant contributions to the United States through the 
     art and humanities, business, activism, and local and 
     national government, and remain an integral part of the South 
     Florida community; and
       Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Frederica S. Wilson, 
     a Member of the United States House of Representatives, 
     representing the 24th Congressional District of Florida, and 
     a person of Bahamian descent, am proud to recognize the 40th 
     anniversary of this resilient, free, and sovereign nation, 
     and pay tribute to the wonderful people and descendants who 
     make it great.

                          ____________________