Press Releases
MIRAMAR’S FIRST FEMALE BAHAMIAN-AMERICAN AND NEWLY ELECTED COMMISSIONER HONORED IN BARRATERRE, EXUMA, THE BAHAMAS, DURING CARIBBEAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Miramar, FL, June 9, 2025 – In a powerful display of cultural pride and transnational unity, newly elected Miramar City Commissioner Avril Cherasard was honored with the Key to the City of Barraterre, Exuma, The Bahamas. The award was presented by the Barraterre Development Association during the 40th Annual Barraterre Homecoming Festival & Regatta, held June 5–9, 2025.
The recognition comes during Caribbean-American Heritage Month in the United States, a time dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of Caribbean-Americans to the nation’s history, culture, and public service. Commissioner Cherasard, a proud Bahamian who was born and raised in Nassau, Bahamas, with family roots in Barraterre through her father, embodies this legacy through her trailblazing leadership and steadfast dedication to service. She is the first female Bahamian-American elected to the Miramar City Commission.
In a gesture of mutual respect and partnership, Commissioner Cherasard also presented an official proclamation from the City of Miramar to the Bahamian delegation, formally recognizing Barraterre Homecoming Celebration Week for its cultural and historical significance.
“It is an honor to be recognized for something I do as representation of great Bahamianism in other countries.” said Commissioner Avril Cherasard. “I am an extremely proud Bahamian with beautiful roots right here in Barraterre; I never forget where I come from. Everywhere I go, I represent my Bahamaland”
As part of the occasion, the City of Miramar gifted a custom two-sided street sign to the people of Barraterre, commemorating the 1,271-mile distance between the two communities. The sign serves as a symbol of unity, shared heritage, and the ties between Miramar and the Bahamian diaspora.
The Barraterre Homecoming Festival & Regatta is a cornerstone celebration of Bahamian heritage, drawing families and the diaspora together in celebration of identity, tradition, and progress. Commissioner Cherasard’s recognition deepens the cultural bridge between Miramar and the Caribbean, especially during this national month of reflection and pride.
Her election and this recent honor mark a historic milestone for Miramar, Barraterre, and the broader Caribbean-American community, highlighting the power of representation, heritage, and global civic leadership.