The newly-announced candidate of the ruling Anguilla United Movement (AUM), Mrs Kristy Richardson-Harrigan, has made an impassionate plea to the people of the island that they should never forget the Anguilla Revolution, the 47th Anniversary of which is now being celebrated. And she has called for a national monument in honour of all freedom fighters.
The Attorney-at-Law is the AUM’s candidate for District 7 (West End/Long Bay) for the 2015 general election. She made her first appearance on the political rostrum in her home village on Saturday, May 24.
“We are again gearing up to celebrate yet another Anguilla Day,” she said. “This is the time when we pause to reflect on the struggles of our forefathers during the 1967 Revolution; and it is imperative that we remember the real purpose behind this struggle. Anguilla is certainly not the Anguilla it was 47 years ago.
“Forty-seven years ago Anguillians were a proud and determined people. Somehow, somewhere, we have lost that sense of pride and determination. Anguillians were brave and resilient. Somehow, somewhere, we have lost that sense of bravery and resilience. Anguillians, were a unified people, working hand in hand together. Sadly, somehow, somewhere, we have lost the sense of unity and we have become divided.
“Forty-seven years ago, our Anguillian men and women were determined to see a better Anguilla. In the face of danger and death, they bravely stood up for what they believed was right to save our precious Anguilla.
“Ladies and gentlemen, we must never, never forget the true meaning of our Revolution, and I am going to be bold and blunt in saying that we need to get back to the basics. Let us begin to give credit where credit is due. Our history books do not cite each individual hero who risked limb and limb amidst the 1967 Revolution. In fact, many strong, vibrant participants from this district have gone unnoticed and I believe their recognition is long overdue.
“I want to publicly thank all the participants of the Revolution, and secondly, as a token of appreciation, I would one day like to see a national monument, or a wall, strategically erected with the names of our brave men and women of our Anguilla Revolution. It is high time that we honour our heroes and heroines with dignity and respect. They deserve it.”
Mrs Richardson-Harrigan, continued by answering a question about her entry on the political stage as a candidate of the AUM. “That question is: why choose me? And the answer is simple: I am ready,” she stated. “I am determined; and, though I am young, I am more than competent…I do not need anyone to convince me that I am capable of representing my district. I grew up in West End. I know you, the people of West End. I know the issues of West End. I am from West End.”
The new AUM election candidate was introduced by her sister, Ms Kerniel Richardson.
