Anguillians have long been aptly characterised as a resilient people despite, figuratively, the deeply-piercing arrows hurled against them from one quarter or another.
Historically, we are a people who have emerged from many social difficulties that might have engulfed others and changed or marred the course of their lives. Today we continue to cherish the freedom that our 1967 Revolution earned us from the dictates and hardships of a political union which neither God nor geography appeared to have decreed. Today, we also celebrate, with the rest of the region, the emancipation of our people from the shackles and dehumanising system of the slave trade. That is what has formed the basis for the August holiday season and the merriment inAnguillanow part of our national cultural heritage.
But we almost did not have this year’s summer festival or carnival activities if the naysayers, fearing an upsurge in violence,were listened to. It is not that there was no need for concern. The fact is that, fear or cowardice must not be allowed to be a driving force in life especially when there are the means of protection and the desire to fight and overcome it: in this context a committed police force and a law-abiding people working and living together harmoniously.
It is difficult, however, not to reflect on the pain and sorrowAnguillaand its citizenry have experienced from the violent death, injury and maiming of a number of young men. And so we are still hurting even as we celebrate the August holiday season: whether quietly at home; at the Landsome Bowl Cultural Centre where various shows are being held; on the streets of The Valley teeming with revelry; or at the sun-kissed and beautiful beaches, scenes of the exciting boat races.
We are also hurting from the pain of the almost dead economy and the consequent difficulties of many of our people to eke out a living. Certainly, anything worse than the present situation would be both pathetic and unbearable – if we have not already reached that stage as some persons would argue. So here are the majority of our people – jumping up for carnival and shouting with excitement at the boat races – displaying an outward show of festive obsession while really hurting inside from the ravages of a bad economy.
The question to answer is: what happens after the dancing, frolicking and feting – after the merriment? There will be the customary temporary closure of our leading hotels and restaurants – and unless good fortune intervenes – the possible indefinite closure of one of them, with hundreds out of work. It is a sad situation confrontingAnguillaand its people, many of whom are crying out in desperation.
“By hook or crook” our leaders must do something about our worsening situation. They must not just simply, as if reneging from their responsibilities, call on the people to help themselves in whatever way they can. That is bad and uncaring advice similar to that given by the Chief Minister who urged the workers at Cap Juluca to do something “even if it means taking over the hotel by force”. That was an unwise statement when, in fact, it is the Government’s responsibility to seek a way out of the problem and to protect the integrity of theCrownLandoccupied by the property. It is the Government’s responsibility to protect the reputation and future of Anguilla’s up-market tourism industry and the jobs and welfare of the people of Anguilla.
The journey through our economic woes may be long and dreary, but it is certainly reassuring that, even in times of threatening despair, our people can find enjoyment and a period of respite in the summer festival. We take this opportunity to welcome our returning families, friends and visitors and to offer them our best wishes. May all of us inAnguillahave a safetime of merriment, or quiet repose, despite the pain that is afflicting many of our people.
