By h. nazan ışık—

5 September 2022—

J’Ouvert and the West Indian-American Day Carnival Parade in person, was back on 5 September, to be celebrated after two years of break due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The celebration is about honoring the culture of the Caribbean, colorful costumes, music, and food, and it always takes place on Labor Day.

The annual pre-West Indian American Day parade event J’Ouvert       “day break” originated from French, signals the start of the Carnival, which hosted by the West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA), went through significant changes.

2016 parade had started at 4:00 am, while it was still dark, and there were no checkpoints.

But 2017 J’Ouvert moved to 6:00 am, because of last two years shootings and killing four people, Mayor de Blasio and Commissioner O’Neill announced at a news conference that 2017 J’Ouvert celebration was going to be different this year. Yes, it was different!

And 2018 J’Ouvert brought more safety rules.

This year I didn’t go. But restrictions were the same:

• The J’Ouvert parade begins at 6 a.m.
• The West Indian-American Day Carnival Parade begins at 11 a.m
• For J’Ouvert, everyone entering the area specified below will be subject to screening by handheld metal detectors, from Sunday, Sept. 4, at 11 p.m. through Monday, Sept. 5, at 11 a.m.
  • All bags and other containers will be inspected for firearms and other dangerous weapons
  • NO large backpacks, weapons, or alcohol are permitted.

While J’Ouvert goes on from 6:00 am to 11:00am WIADCA gave a breakfast to invited quests before the parade started at 11:00 am.  And some Elected officials delivered remarks.

Senator Chuck Schumer.

Governor Hochul delivered her remarks while NYS Attorney General (second from left) listening.

Senator Chuck Schumer

Governor Hochul and Jumaane Williams, the NYC Public Advocate, showing their shoes, said they are ready to march.

Governor Hochul, waiting for the parade to start.

Mayor Eric Adams didn’t attend the breakfast, went directly to the beginning of parade.

Mayor Eric Adams posing with some participants.

This year too the West Indian American Day Parade was a Platform for Elected Officials and Those Running for Office before New York’s Primary Elections.

Governor Hochul (Incumbent), the Democratic nominee for Governor.

Rep Lee Zeldin ( in orange shirt) who is the Republican nominee for Governor, hand-bumping with spectators.

Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado (third from left) (Incumbent), Democratic nominee for Lieutenant Governor.

NYS Attorney General Letitia James (Incumbent), Democratic candidate for Attorney General.

Jumaane Williams, the NYC Public Advocate and NYC Comptroller Brad Lander were having a good time, dancing with music coming from huge speakers, and greeting spectators.

Elected officials are gone, finally colorful parade started.

Some marched in very elaborate costumes.

Some participants decided to wear more manageable costumes.

This sign reminds you what to expect at public portable restrooms in a crowded event, I saw it every year when I went to this event, and always made me laugh.  

Photos: Copyrighted © h. nazan ışık  / NKENdiKEN

© NKENdiKEN