DARDA's organizing members are disappointed to officially announce that the annual National Day Luncheon for 2020 has been canceled due to public health concerns surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. Each year, this event is our opportunity to celebrate Dominica's independence - and its cultural heritage more broadly - while raising funds to send home in support of social service programs. However, as it is of critical importance to reduce the likelihood of further coronavirus outbreaks in the New York area and elsewhere, a gathering such as ours is unwise and in fact, may not be permissible by state law.

Aside from any inconvenience caused by this cancellation, we are aware that patrons and their families throughout the diaspora may be suffering physically, emotionally, or financially during this time. DARDA wishes to acknowledge these difficulties and sends love and our sincere condolences to anyone who may have suffered a loss.

We hope to be in a better position next year, so that we may try again to join together in love & unity.

We are planning on ways in which we can still celebrate our national independence and express our pride in our Dominican culture. Follow us on Facebook at DARDA Dominica and Instagram at darda_org for information on how you can join us in a virtual celebration in the upcoming days.