07/13/2026
The Bahamas Consulate General Los Angeles Hosts the 3rd Annual Independence Family Fun Day & Picnic
Sherman Oaks, California – On Saturday, July 11, 2026, The Bahamas Consulate General Los Angeles hosted the 3rd annual Independence Family Fun Day & Picnic at Hazeltine Park (Van Nuys Sherman Oaks War Memorial Park), 14201 Huston Street, Sherman Oaks, California 91423.
The gathering brought together members of the Bahamian diaspora, consular colleagues, and friends of The Bahamas to celebrate the nation’s 53rd anniversary of Independence.
Consul General Joy A. Newbold-Sherman opened the festivities with a prayer, offering thanks for the strong community turnout and extending warm appreciation to all. In a moment of solemn reflection, she paid reverence to the souls lost in the tragic plane crash on the island of Andros on July 10th.
While leading the gathering in joyful celebration of The Bahamas’ milestone 53 years as an independent nation, CG Newbold-Sherman also reflected on the past 3 years of festivities at the park and encouraged the diaspora to keep their spirits, hearts and minds in the theme of the 53rd year as we are “Celebrating our heritage, shaping our tomorrow.”
All officers from the Consulate General were in attendance, joined by esteemed members of the Los Angeles Consular Corps, including Caribbean colleagues, the Ag. Consul General of Belize, Ms. Yvette Gentile and the Honorary Consul of Trinidad and Tobago, Mrs. Joan Chanman-Forbes. The event also welcomed Bahamians and friends from across the jurisdiction, with representatives of the diaspora traveling from San Diego and as far as Nevada to reconnect with their heritage and one another.
The afternoon featured classic Bahamian camaraderie through lively music, games of corn hole, dominoes, giant Jenga, and trivia. A highlight was the abundant buffet showcasing authentic Bahamian delicacies, including peas and rice, barbecued and baked chicken, potato salad, coleslaw, macaroni, and homemade desserts such as potato bread, banana bread, and johnny cake. Children and adults alike enjoyed the sunny yet pleasantly cool LA weather, fostering fellowship, laughter, and cherished memories. Group photographs captured the vibrant “Bahamian family” on the West Coast, underscoring the strength and unity of the community far from home. The gathering exemplified the enduring spirit of resilience, cultural pride, and shared prosperity that defines the Bahamian people.
A huge announcement was also made by the diaspora member Mr. Oral Ellis, who informed the gathering of his intent to form the official Bahamian Association of California. Mr. Ellis advised that he hopes to have the group established by end of year with a governing body organizing future outreach, events and country specific mandate of cooperation with the Consulate General. CG Newbold-Sherman endorsed Mr. Ellis’ proposal and thanked him for taking lead with this initiative.
The Consul General in closing extended her sincere gratitude to all attendees, who contributed to the success of this meaningful annual celebration. She stated that events such as these reinforce the Mission’s commitment to engaging the Bahamian diaspora, strengthening cultural ties, and promoting The Bahamas across its twelve-state jurisdiction.
As The Bahamas continues its journey of nation-building, the Consulate General remains dedicated to serving its nationals and advancing the country’s interests on the West Coast of the United States.
