This is indeed an exciting time in Anguilla as we come together to celebrate the very best of our cultural heritage. The best food, music, boat racing and pageantry can be found right here in Anguilla and we welcome all who come to share in the fun and fanfare on our beautiful rock. This time of year brings back fond memories of my childhood, with fun, laughter and smiles and a strong sense of love and community. This is a time to put our differences aside and enjoy with family and friends.
Our people, for many years have taken great pride in our cultural traditions. Whether it be the piercing words of a poem that lifts our spirits and stirs our imagination; community theatre performances; the social consciousness of our calypsos; the grace and poise of our young people on the pageant stage; the grand parade of troupes; the intoxicating sweetness of soca or that “scratch band” that will leave you dancing for days! The excitement also builds this week as we look forward to the spectacle of J’ouvert and the thrills of boat racing competitions, a true staple and pastime for all Anguillians. Indeed Anguilla has so much to offer.
The calibre of talented young people in our country gives me such pride and hope. The high quality of our junior calypsonians, Super Mario’s stellar performance and the beautiful diversity of the Anguillian spirit are remarkable. I have no doubt that the best of Anguilla’s cultural heritage is preserved within our future generation. Our youth have such a passion and a drive for excellence in this field and they should be recognized fully for the contribution that they make not only to our cultural heritage, but also to our economic growth. Our youth are putting Anguilla on the map in more ways than one. We must do our very best to support their efforts as they seek to build and sustain a livelihood through Arts, Culture and Entertainment.
Our festivals are therefore a perfect time for our youth to showcase their talents and abilities and to demonstrate their craftsmanship and creativity. As leaders of the day, we must also work hard to ensure that Anguilla’s talent finds room and every opportunity for expression, both regionally and on the world stage. The culture and entertainment industry in Anguilla is most definitely in need of greater focus and attention, with the requisite resources to build on our successes and create a pathway for better opportunities and life chances for our young people. This is an area of social development that we must prioritise.
Through Arts, Culture and Entertainment, the product and promise of the revolution can be seen and heard in every stroke on a canvas, every musical note, in dance, and in every written and spoken word. Our culture is a source of inspiration for many and an escape from the daily trials and tribulations we face. It is truly a time to relax and unwind and experience the magic of tranquillity wrapped in blue.
I want to take this time to recognize all the corporate sponsors, public servants, organizers and volunteers who have worked year round to make this year’s festival a reality and a success. Our cultural heritage and innate talents will live on because of your dedication and hard work. For this, I say thank you. I also want to thank those of blessed memory who have left a lasting legacy in the field of Arts, Culture and Entertainment and the longstanding traditions that we hold sacred. To the many visitors to our shores who will share in this year’s celebration with us – I say Welcome to the greatest rock on earth! As you participate, may you experience the love and hospitality of the Anguillian people?
Above all, we must recognize the importance of safety during this festive season. Therefore I want to urge everyone participating in the festivities this year to do so responsibly. Do not drink and drive, be peaceful at all times and show love and respect for all. Have Fun!
