Bahamas to hoist national flag half-mast in tribute to Sir Poitier

On the demise of Sir Sidney Poitier, Bahamian-American actor, film director, activist dies on Friday at the age of 94. He was the first-ever Black man to receive the Oscar award. The Caribbean leaders and people pay tribute to him, condoling on Sir Poitier’s demise. 

In remembrance of Sir Sidney Poitier’s life and rich legacy, Bahamas Prime Minister Philip E. Davis has instructed that the Bahamian flag be flown at – half-mast at home and in our embassies worldwide.

Bahamian Prime Minister Davis cited, “The Bahamas grieves and extends our deepest condolences to his family. But as we mourn, we celebrate the life of a great Bahamian, who was a cultural icon, an actor & film director, an entrepreneur, civil and human rights activist and, latterly, a diplomat. 

We admire him, not just because of his colossal achievements but also because of who he was, his characters strength and willingness to stand up & be counted, and the way he plotted and navigated his journey of life. 

The boy who moved from the – tomato farm of Cat Island to become a waiter in the United States. The young man who not only taught himself to read & write, but who made the expression of words & thoughts and feelings central to his career; the man who expressed his rage against racial injustice through quiet dignity; the humanitarian who used his steely determination not just to make himself better, but to better the world in which he lived, filtered via the milk of human kindness. And all of it achieved without sacrificing – integrity, charm, elegance or wit.

 While St Lucia Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre paying tribute to Sir Poitier, asserted, “Despite many odds stacked against him, Poitier defied racial barriers and personal circumstances to become an acclaimed, history-making black actor. He leaves behind a body of work on and off camera which has inspired many generations.”

“May his life reminds us that our struggles are not insurmountable if only we are willing to do the work. Rest in Peace Sir Sidney Poitier. #PhilipCares“. 

Numerous prominent celebrities and politicians send their condolences to the family of Sir Poitier, saying he will forever remain in hearts of the people and will be eternally be remembered for his work in several blockbuster Hollywood movies.