Tyler Perry, known for his philanthropic efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian in 2019, recently visited the Bahamas to commemorate the nation’s 50 years of independence from British colonial rule.
In a Facebook postdated September 24, the Office of the Prime Minister, headed by Prime Minister Philip Davis, acknowledged Perry’s visit, stating, “Earlier this weekend, Tyler Perry paid Prime Minister Philip Davis a courtesy visit to celebrate The Bahamas’ remarkable milestone of 50 years of independence. During their meeting, Perry shared warm congratulations and expressed his admiration for the nation’s achievements. He also highlighted the incredible potential for growth in The Bahamas’ Orange Economy, emphasizing the exciting new opportunities for the creative arts and cultural industries.”
The Bahamas Development Bank defines The Bahamas’ Orange Economy as encompassing all sectors of the nation’s economy rooted in the creation of intellectual property.
According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the “main purpose of the Orange Economy, is the production or reproduction, promotion, dissemination and/or the marketing of goods, services and activities that have cultural, artistic or patrimonial content.”
Perry, who possesses a private island in The Bahamas, has previously described himself as an adoptive son of the island. He articulated his profound connection to the Bahamian people in an interview with The Tribune, stating, “I very much feel like a part of the Bahamian people. If we go back to our history and our culture, and how we all got into America and this part of the world, you know, we all have a common bond. So, to have a country celebrating 50 years of independence is pretty amazing, especially being people of color who know what it takes to be independent and to make their way through things.”
Additionally, Perry affirmed his dedication to involving The Bahamas in future projects but emphasized the need to immerse himself in the island’s culture beforehand. He elaborated, saying, “Here’s my thought – I write what I know and what I understand. I never want to be insulting to anyone. So, until I fully get immersed and understand and spend time with some real downhome Bahamians – and here’s the other part of it, each island is going to have their own different flavor and feel, so until I can understand all of that, I don’t want to insult anybody.”
SOURCE: blackenterprise.com
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