Broward Caribbean carnival on hold

So the city leaders in Miramar decided not to approve a plan to host the Broward Caribbean carnival this year. View article here.

I am surprised that the city commissioners voted this way. If there was one city that I expected to be more understanding of the Caribbean American population it would be Miramar.

Despite the reasons cited for the rejection I would think that there are sufficient positives to go ahead with the Carnival. It is only held once a year and there is a real economic benefit to vendors and possibly to the city itself. This is an excellent opportunity to market the city and the South Florida area as a whole since Caribbean folks are not the only ones to enjoy the Caribbean carnival. Tourists come from all over the country and quite possible from other countries to experience carnival.

Aside from the business side of things, there is the cultural and social aspect. The carnival is a uniting factor among the community. It is arguably the one area that brings the entire Caribbean community together. The rejection by Miramar to host this is not only a “no” to the carnival but a “no” also to the opportunity to share the Caribbean culture. This brings us to the cultural aspect. Everyone knows that carnival is a major part of our community. This is not just a big party. It represents the opportunity to share in music, art, foods and other avenues of expression.

I still think the carnival will proceed despite the setback. I am just not sure where. But I hope that the people behind this will work to find a way to bring this to fruition.