National Heroes and Heroines Day is celebrated on December 19 each year in the island nation of Anguilla. The day is an opportunity to remember and appreciate all the efforts of people who made significant contributions to the nation. Their contributions have had a substantial impact on Anguilla’s history. They have also made significant sacrifices for the country’s and its citizens’ prosperity. National Heroes and Heroines Day also honors the 1967 Anguilla revolution. There are memorial services that are held for those involved. Parades and music performances follow the memorial services. The whole day is a time for joy rather than solemn remembrance.
History of National Heroes and Heroines Day
Anguilla, located in the Eastern Caribbean, is a British Overseas Territory. The islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis joined the nation of Anguilla as an associated statehood in 1962. Some resentment against this political decision made the people of Anguilla march on the Police Headquarters. They evicted the Royal Saint Kitts Police Force from the island in May 1967. Anguilla was able to secede from the association on December 19, 1980. This day was declared a public holiday and was called Separation Day. The aim was to celebrate the anniversary of the political separation of Anguilla from the territory of Saint Christopher-Nevis-Anguilla.
The Government of Anguilla changed Separation Day to National Heroes and Heroines Day. The holiday falls just before Christmas, making it a busy time for the island. They get many tourists who visit to catch some winter sun during the holidays.
Several nations in the Caribbean have a version of National Heroes Day. Anguilla is the only nation to mention the female version of heroes in their holiday. When used in the plural, heroes is an acceptable group term for both sexes. In most countries, Heroes’ Day or National Heroes’ Day may refer to many commemorations of national heroes. The holiday usually falls on the birthday of a national hero or heroine. It can also occur on the anniversary of their great deeds that made them heroes.
National Heroes and Heroines Day timeline
English settlers from St. Christopher (St. Kitts) colonize Anguilla.
Anguilla declares its independence, but Britain does not recognize this.
Citizens of Anguilla take a vote to eject Britain and become an independent territory.
Anguilla becomes a British-dependent territory, and Britain withdraws its troops.
National Heroes and Heroines Day FAQs
What is the currency in Anguilla?
Anguilla’s currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar. The U.S. Dollar is also widely accepted.
Does Anguilla have electricity?
Yes, Anguilla has electricity. It is supplied by The Anguilla Electricity Company.
Is there a police force in Anguilla?
Yes, there is a national police force in Anguilla. They are called The Royal Anguilla Police Force (R.A.P.F).
How to Observe National Heroes and Heroines Day
Visit this beautiful nation
Anguilla is a beautiful country. You can visit nearby restaurants, cafés, and beaches and hang out with friends and family.
Do something brave
You can participate in the holiday by doing something courageous. You can take inspiration from your favorite heroes.
Share the holiday
You can share about this holiday either in person or online and make people aware. To let everyone know about this event, you can use the hashtag #NationalHeroesAndHeroinesDay on your social media profile.
5 Facts About Anguilla
The capital city is very sparsely populated
The capital of Anguilla is "The Valley" and it has a population of 600 people.
Anguilla is part of the Caribbean
Anguilla is the most northern island in the Caribbean.
Anguilla has lovely beaches
Anguilla has 33 beaches, and many have been ranked the world's best.
There are thriving businesses
In place of high-rise hotels, cruise ships, casinos, or shopping centers, you'll find independently-owned businesses run by locals.
This is a sparsely populated island
The population in Anguilla was estimated at 15,094 in 2011.
Why National Heroes and Heroines Day is Important
It’s a day that inspires courage
The holiday revolves around the courageous acts of ordinary men and women. This helps people move past their fear zones.
It honors heroes
We all love our heroes and heroines and we should celebrate them always. This holiday enables us to do exactly that.
It creates unity
People come together to celebrate a common cause, creating a sense of unity. With unity, a sense of nationhood is fostered which is great for the people of Anguilla.
National Heroes and Heroines Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | December 19 | Thursday |
| 2025 | December 19 | Friday |
| 2026 | December 19 | Saturday |
| 2027 | December 19 | Sunday |
| 2028 | December 19 | Tuesday |
