CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH USA
Caribbean American Heritage Month – Overview
President George W. Bush on June 5, 2006, in response to the Bill passed by The Congress, issued a Proclamation declaring the month of June to be National Caribbean American Heritage Month in recognition of the significant contributions made, to the USA, by people of Caribbean heritage. Subsequently, a Proclamation is issued each year by the current President in celebration of the anniversary.
Elizabeth Burns, the CEO and President of Unique Creations by Liz, a popular event marketing, planning and production company, saw that people were not aware of this milestone of recognition and decided to make an effort to correct this so that it would get the respect it deserves. To accomplish this she started raising awareness by producing Caribbean-American Exhibition which since 2010, features a diverse group of Caribbean and American businesses, who showcase and promote their products and services to the community.
Over the years the event has been expanded to include a festival theme with indoor-outdoor celebrations and exhibits. In an effort to maintain and keep the Caribbean American Heritage and Culture alive and strong, we have included cultural entertainment provided by several artistes and entertainers, of Caribbean and American Heritage, which allows them to showcase their talents, leading to booking opportunities.
In conjunction with the Caribbean American Exhibition and Festival we produce the Expressions Caribbean American Magazine which contains articles of information and interest, along with a bird’s eye view of the Caribbean region, people and culture. These serve to make the magazine a source of reference thereby giving full exposure to the businesses that have placed advertisements in it. The magazine will also be available online all year-long.
In 2015 Unique CAHM and Culture Awards Banquet and Gala was introduced to recognize local individuals who have made significant or meaningful contributions to the wellbeing of their community. These individuals are nominated by the public and chosen by a Selection Committee.
These Annual events have been recognized for their contribution to the wellbeing of the community by: Broward County, Florida; The City of Lauderdale Lakes; The City of Miramar; The School Board of Miami-Dade County; Various Mayors and Commissioners, a Member of Congress; The Governor of Florida; Consulates General; The Prime Minister of Jamaica; which have issued letters of commendation and Proclamations designating the month of the event to be “Caribbean-American Exhibition & Festival Day” and “Caribbean American Heritage Month Celebrations” in South Florida.