Welcome to our series of bi-weekly columns under the title “The Gender Corner,” published in collaboration with The Anguillian newspaper. Through this publication we hope to provide thought-provoking and stimulating discussion that will translate into practical ways of effecting positive change in gender affairs.
This week we consider the notion of community cooperation and the great display of humanity that was shown during this week’s hurricane. We have shown ourselves committed to maintaining the humanity that is best displayed during unexpected trials in Anguilla, and there are ways that we can strengthen this display.
Tropical Storm Gonzalo quickly developed into Hurricane Gonzalo to the shock and surprise of almost everyone on our island. The rapid increase in winds and rain left some of us anticipating the eye of the storm so that we could put up shutters and have a break from the fierce flow of rain and leaves. I express regret for the loss of vegetation, fruit trees, rooftops and damage created by fallen trees and flying debris, but am glad that our most precious commodity: our people, are safe.
Despite this momentary hardship, we were still able to see unity in the midst of the storm. People were reassured by the calls and texts from neighbors and friends. Radio Anguilla was a source of information and comfort when no one else could be reached. These small, yet meaningfully important, gestures during a storm display the true meaning of community. Regardless of sex, age, nationality, or other differences, we stood and will stand united.
As we continue our cleanup efforts, we must reflect on how we can better equip ourselves to handle adversity and challenge that will certainly come. Here are a few key points to remember:
1) Continue to look out for our vulnerable persons: the elderly, the disenfranchised and those without a support system around them. A common phrase that states: “I am my neighbor’s keeper” rings true during this time.
2) We can never overestimate the effects of a storm. It is better to be over-prepared than underprepared. Additionally, we must have adequate time to prepare. In the future, employers must allow ample time for storm preparation – send workers home so that their households can be better equipped to withstand potential damage.
3) Coordinate responses for schools and the workforce so that parents and children are given equal opportunities in disaster response. If parents are working and children are forced to be left at home unsupervised, then we are not implementing appropriate response measures. For vulnerable populations, care givers and babysitters may not be available on such short notice. Coordination is key.
The Gender Affairs Unit works to ensure the full development of men, women, girls and boys in addition to family and community structures. These reflections on “Unity in the Midst of the Storm” highlight the areas of strength within our community, but they also display some areas of disconnect that must be addressed in order to ensure the safety and well-being of all in Anguilla.
We need to keep the spirit of unity alive in Anguilla so that every man, woman, boy and girl will understand the importance of collective responsibility and the building of community. I am interested in knowing how you saw your community members come together during Hurricane Gonzalo. How were vulnerable populations supported? In what ways did someone keep you safe during the storm and in the aftermath? Please contact the Gender Affairs Unit; Dr. Ronya Foy Connor, Gender Development Coordinator, at the Ministry of Home Affairs, The Valley, or at Ronya.Foy-Connor@gov.ai, 497-2518.
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)
