Her Excellency the Governor, Christina Scott, in Anguilla for the past four years, addressed the mammoth crowd at the Ronald Webster Park on Tuesday, May 30, during the Official Parade marking the Golden Jubilee of the Anguilla Revolution.
“In this Anguilla’s Jubilee Year, we recall the resolution of those whose actions and vision provided firm foundations for Anguilla’s growth; those whose names on buildings and roads remind us daily of their contribution to nation-building; and it is a good thing that some of these revolutionary heroes can be with us today,” she said. “We applaud their contribution. We also remember those who could not – and in particular the Honourable James Ronald Webster whose passing we moaned just a few months ago.
“This Jubilee Year is also an opportunity to reflect on the society in which we live today and how well we meet that biblical high standard. There can be no doubt that, thanks to previous generations, and with God’s blessings, Anguilla is stronger, more prosperous, freer and healthier today than half a century ago. I simply do not believe those who say otherwise.
“The responsibility of that inheritance, passed down from the earlier nation-builders, now rests with today’s leaders: those who by virtue of their positions in the Assembly, in public service, business, journalism, civil society and in pulpits, influence opinions and take the decisions; and whose words and deeds shape public discourse and… set the nation’s direction.
“This Jubilee Year, then, is an opportunity for all in such authority to re-dedicate themselves to public service to ensure their contribution helps remove disparity and uphold equality; to ensure that in their actions the good of the community and common prosperity is always put ahead of self-interest. If it does not, we would be failing those who went before and who built Anguilla’s foundations.”
Governor Scott further stated: “Let me also pay tribute to those who daily strive to uphold the rule of law and keep us safe – and to take a moment to thank the police, the fire, prison services and all the others today who have marched. It was such an impressive display. It was easily the brightest and biggest display we have seen in four years.
“Perhaps, more than anything else, this Jubilee Year makes us look to the future to Anguilla’s children and grandchildren who will steer their country towards her centenary. In the four years I have had the enormous privilege of living in Anguilla, I have met many passionate and wise young people. They dream and hope for the successful development of Anguilla in which everyone has an equal chance to reach their potential. As Anguilla celebrates this important milestone, she can look forward confident that in her young people she really does have the talents needed for the journey ahead.”
The Governor then went on to say that it was her enormous privilege to share with the people of Anguilla a special message from Her Majesty the Queen which reads:
Prince Philip and I take this opportunity to congratulate the people of Anguilla on the Fiftieth Anniversary celebrations of this special day in their history. I remember fondly my visit to Anguilla, the natural beauty of the island and the warmth of the people.
Anguilla and the United Kingdom share a close history and common value which underpin our special friendship. In this year of celebration, I send my best wishes for Anguilla’s future.
Elizabeth R.
Governor Scott was pleased to announce that “this special friendship, of which Her Majesty speaks, is demonstrated by the Flag of Anguilla flying over the Foreign and Commonwealth Office today.”
