U.S. and Senegal Celebrate Democracy

Chargé Robert Yamate (right) and Minister Augustin Tine cutting the cake. [photo Pape Seydi, Le Soleil]

The embassy chorus singing the national anthems [US Embassy photo]

On July 4, 2012, the U.S. Embassy in Dakar, like Americans all around the world, celebrated the 236th anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America.

Many guests, government officials, members of the Diplomatic Corps, and U.S. citizens living in Senegal, responded with joy to the invitation from Mr. Robert Yamate, Chargé d'Affaires of the U.S. Embassy.  The celebration took place poolside at the King Fahd Hotel (formerly Meridien President).  Mr. Augustin Tine, Minister of Armed Forces, represented the Senegalese government.

Mr. Yamate highlighted the Senegalese people’s March 25th "democratic triumph," who "after months of uncertainty and concern, went to the polls and made their voices heard - proudly and peacefully voting in a new government."

This year the celebration was focused on the flag, America’s best-known symbol, the "Red, White, and Blue".  When it was adopted in 1777, the colors had no symbolic value.  They were just colors.  It was only later, when they were integrated as part of the Great Seal of the United States, they were given the meanings we know today.  White for purity and innocence, red for hardiness and valor, and blue for vigilance, perseverance, and justice.  For many of us, these colors, red, white, and blue, symbolize simply "freedom".