Council celebrates Independence Day

Just before Christmas, Tower Hamlets Council marked the forty-first anniversary of the independence ofBangladesh. During an afternoon of various activities, over 100 residents learnt about the rich heritage ofBangladesh. Young people made speeches, sang and gave performances in their mother tongue about their achievements and cultural pride.

Visitors all wore a “bijoy phool” to show their respect for the freedom fighters who lost their lives liberatingBangladesh(a similar gesture to the British custom of wearing a poppy to commemorate those who have lost their lives in war).

Children who attend an afterschool club atMayflowerPrimary Schoolpresented the Bijoy Phool to guests who included freedom fighters and Shamim Azad, the founder of Bijoy Phool.

The Council has a Community Languages Team, which works across the borough to help children learn their mother tongue and celebrate their heritage. The team works with schools, community organisations and mosques to deliver projects in after school clubs.

The Mayor of Tower Hamlets, Lutfur Rahman, spoke of his support for this approach, saying: “I am proud to have hosted this important event which pays tribute to the brave people who fought for the independence ofBangladesh. It is important for the young people to learn about their heritage and I support the work of the Bijoy Phool Project.”

Cllr Oliur Rahman, Cabinet member for Children’s Services, also supported the event, saying: “This was a wonderful event which brought the younger and older generations together with some very moving speeches. I hope it will help young people to develop a deeper understanding of their culture.”