The Commonwealth flag being hoisted by Ivan Dawson Primary School Fourth Grade student Destinee M. Cline in the presence of Sister Islands Coordinator Vincent O. Wheatley, Governor John S. Duncan OBE and Minister for Education and Culture Hon Myron V. Walwyn. Photo: VINO

On the occasion of Commonwealth Day 2016 Governor his Excellency John S. Duncan OBE reading a message from her Majesty, Head of The Commonwealth Queen Elizabeth II said that being inclusive and accepting diversity is much more than just being tolerant. Photo: VINO

Delivering brief remarks, Minister for Education and Culture Honourable Myron V. Walwyn noted that the Ministry commenced the teaching of civics in schools for the purpose of making sure that national pride is inculcated in the children. Photo: VINO

A section of the audience at the gathering today March 14, 2016. Photo: VINO

Governor Duncan was delivering the Queen’s message at the Fly a Flag for the Commonwealth ceremony today Monday March 14, 2016 at the Ivan Dawson Primary School in Cane Garden Bay.

The Queen said that the recognition to this value and the wisdom of mutual respect for each other are set out in the Commonwealth Charter. “It’s opening words ‘We the People of the Commonwealth’ convey the conviction that individuals as well as Government build and share our success,” the message read.

The Queen in her message said being inclusive and accepting diversity goes far deeper than accepting differences at face value and being tolerant.

“True celebration of the dignity of each person and the value of their uniqueness and contribution involves reaching out, recognising and embracing the individual identity,” she said in her message through the Governor.

Those in attendance included Minister for Education and Culture Honourable Myron V. Walwyn and Second District Representative Honourable Melvin ‘Mitch’ Turnbull.

Delivering brief remarks, Honourable Walwyn noted that the Education Ministry commenced the teaching of civics in schools for the purpose of making sure that national pride is inculcated in the children.

"We wanted to teach just that...inclusion for us to celebrate the diversity that we share as members of the humankind," said Honourable Walwyn, before he commenced reading of a letter from the Commonwealth Secretary General Kamalesh Sharma.

Reading the message, the Minister said the awareness brought by Commonwealth Day flag raising ceremonies and the associated activities bring greater understanding and appreciation of values and principles that animate the Commonwealth Charter to which the Governments of all 53 Commonwealth countries subscribe.

The Commonwealth flag was then hoisted by Ivan Dawson Primary School Fourth Grade student Destinee M. Cline.