Independence Day

Funders

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION

Independence Day, 31 March, is probably the most important day of the year for Bangladeshis. It marks the country's independence from Pakistan, it was formerly East Pakistan until 1972.

The event involves a memorial to the victims of the war of independence, awards to members of the community who have achieved excellance in education, business and support of the community, and traditional entertainment. It is a good family day out with educational benefit and an opportunity to meet old friends.

Independence was a fight from oppression and genocide for Bangladeshis - possibly the world’s worst genocide. Sadly, the severity of this has remained un-discussed and unrecognised because the arbitrators were close US allies and supplied and supported by the US. It is particularly felt amongst the elders of the community, many of whom were heavily involved in that struggle whether directly or as campaigners and financiers here in the UK.

You can learn more about the Independence struggle on our Bangladeshi history page.

The event staged by the Association is usually held at the first convenient Sunday after the 31 March. You can check the events home page to see when it will next be held, and where, when this is decided.

If you would like to to be kept informed of when it will be happening please complete one or both of the forms on our homepage or register as a member.