Fellow Anguillians at home and abroad, Greetings.
Today, we celebrate Anguilla Day. This is a moment where we pause to recognize and celebrate the men and women of the 1967 Revolution. It is through their bravery and sacrifice that we are here today. As sons and daughters of the revolution, let us never forget these heroes and heroines who went to prison for us, stood before the guns and bullets for us, and secured our separation from St. Kitts Nevis – paving the way for Anguilla’s free and self-determined society. I urge us to never grow tired of hearing their stories of bravery and triumph; it is a constant reminder of how strong we are as a people and how blessed we are to call this little rock our home.
In the early years after the Revolution, life in Anguilla was a significant challenge. However, we had leaders who were committed to building an Anguilla where all our people would thrive and prosper; an Anguilla where all our children would benefit from equal opportunity; an Anguilla that was centred on Love, Unity and Respect. This was the vision of James Ronald Webster, father of our nation.
Sadly, as the years went by, our leaders have strayed from this One Anguilla Vision and have exploited and deepened the divide between our people. This has resulted in the erosion of the bonds between families and communities; fuelled by the toxic political party culture that breeds envy, malice and political victimization. Our children deserve better and as leaders we must set the example; to rise above the politics of personality, and return our focus back to the people of Anguilla; our most treasured and valuable resource.
Today, Anguillians at home and abroad wake up to a world turned upside down by the Coronavirus pandemic. Our people are facing serious financial hardship; unable to pay rent and utilities, buy food, service their loans and meet their basic needs. Our entrepreneurs worry about the future of their businesses and their ability to remain open during the worst economic downturn in decades. Every day I see the struggles of fathers unable to provide for their families; I see the tears of our single mothers and grandmothers who are in desperate need of help and support. I too worry about the children and what future they will inherit with all the uncertainties that exist in this current crisis. However, in the midst of these dark hours, the kindness and compassion that I have witnessed among our people gives me hope. Thank you for showing us how to truly be our brothers’ keeper.
The way forward for Anguilla requires us to embrace and to live the One Anguilla Vision. Though we may differ in colour, creed, social status, family name, origin and background – we are all Anguillians. If we are to successfully emerge from the depths of this crisis, we must work together. This country cannot survive on the efforts of one social group. We need everyone to participate. We need everyone to contribute towards achieving a values-driven, economically secured, healthy and educated future for ALL our people. This is possible when we make a conscious effort to see the potential in others, to lay aside our own prejudice, and put our country above our own selfish interests. Don’t allow our differences, politicians or political parties to divide us any longer, the time for unity is now.
The months ahead will be challenging. However, the commitment, determination and resolve that our revolutionists had in 1967 still runs through our veins today. Building a self-reliant, self-sufficient and sustainable Anguilla requires the people’s participation – Your ideas, Your Knowledge, and Your Expertise must take centre stage in a new administration made up of individuals who are solutions driven and people focused.
As our General Elections draw near, let us take this time to reflect on where we came from, where we are now, and where we need to be. I urge every Anguillian to exercise your franchise in a responsible way. Our children are depending on us to make the right choice. To elect men and women of good character; men and women who are competent, with a track record of sacrifice and service to the community; men and women who demonstrate loyalty to the people, not to a political party.
To every Anguillian at home and abroad, Happy Anguilla Day! May God continue to bless us as a people and to bless our beloved country, always.
