On Tuesday, Nov. 30, Rihanna got an insignia for her National Hero Award in Barbados, and she looked stunning in a white little dress and jacket. Prime Minister Mia Mottley honoured the singer and entrepreneur, 33, Barbados' 11th national hero, breaking records as the country's second woman to win the award.
Barbados' celebration of breaking ties with the United Kingdom, removing Queen Elizabeth II as head of state, and becoming a republic included a ceremony in Golden Square Freedom Park in Bridgetown. With over 400 years of British rule behind her, Rihanna, who was born Robyn Rihanna Fenty in Saint Michael, Barbados before moving to the United States, was honoured by the country and its new President Sandra Mason on Nov. 29.
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Rihanna received a medal and gave a brief statement to the spectators at another event on Tuesday. According to USA Today, she stated, "This is a day that I will never, ever forget. It’s also a day that I never saw coming. I have travelled the world and received several awards and recognitions, but nothing, nothing compares to being recognised in the soil that you grew in.”
The prince continued, “Emancipation, self-government and independence were your way-points. Freedom, justice and self-determination have been your guides. Your long journey has brought you to this moment, not as your destination, but as a vantage point from which to survey a new horizon.” In an Instagram message released on Monday, Queen Elizabeth expressed her congratulations to the new republic.
“On this significant occasion and your assumption of office as the first President of Barbados, I extend my congratulations to you and all Barbadians,” the post read. “I first visited your beautiful country on the eve of independence in early 1966, and I am very pleased that my son is with you today. Since then, the people of Barbados have held a special place in my heart.”