The following address was delivered by Mrs. Vonetter Richardson for the election of Mrs. Cora Richardson-Hodge as leader of the AUF.
“Michelle Mc Clain-Walters in her book “The Deborah Anointing” wrote in her introduction “Embracing the call to be A Woman of Power and influence”
“She quoted Judges 5:7 in the NKJV which says “Village life ceased, it ceased in Israel, until I Deborah, arose, arose a mother in Israel.
“Today I am inspired by the writing of Michelle Mc Clain Walters, because I find it to be very appropriate for this time, season and purpose. “Mrs. Cora Richardson Hodge, the Lord has called you to extraordinary leadership and courage, and has extended a great invitation to you to become a part of His story and to effect history. He is calling an ordinary woman like you into His extraordinary work of affecting change in the gate of politics and government.
“Every major political issue at its root is about discerning truth and having the character to make a righteous decision. You have no aristocratic lineage, yet, God has chosen to elevate you to high political power by the common consent of all your peers present here today.
“Make no mistake about it, embracing this marvelous calling of God is not easy or glamorous. There will always be obstacles to overcome and seemingly more attractive ways to live; yet, God has called you to live as His Ambassador among the nation. Be an advocate for, spreading His love and making an eternal difference in the lives of those you are called to serve in this governance sphere of influence.
“As the world changes and normal life is no longer the same, stronger leaders are required to lead with vision, innovation, and sound problem solving skills, decorum and empathy.
“We are proud, and delighted to have you as the new leader of our organization. We are confident that you will shape the morale of the party, suggest solutions to societal ills and the ability to discern the gifting of those who are in the organization to work on the necessary policies and programs to influence the gates of:
• Family and future development
• Governance
• Economy
• Education
• Media and Communication
• Science and Technology
• Arts, Sports and Culture, and
• Our Godly Belief Systems.
“The entire party as well as others are looking forward to working with you to continue to improve the lives of All Anguillians.
“The historian Mr. Colville L. Petty OBE wrote in his book “Anguilla’s Battle for Freedom 1967-1969 “When the history of Anguilla is truly written it would have to be said that whatever Anguilla achieved, was achieved because of the Women. When the island was invaded the men did not face the guns, the women did.”
“With that in mind, we are confident that you will lead us in the right direction, as we embrace and receive you, we are overjoyed that you have accepted the challenge. Indeed, with your experience and dedication, we are assured that we will accomplish remarkable things together for our beloved Anguilla and the generations to come.
“You are a phenomenal woman, an aspiring great leader and we are excited to see you stand in your role. Stand tall, stand firm and, having done all you can still stand, because you can do all things through Christ who gives you the strength.
“Therefore, on behalf of the Honorable Victor Banks the transitioning leader, and all the members of the AUF Family, we welcome you to your new leadership role. Be assured that we stand proud and tall with you.
“Just like Deborah who had been called to exercise her uncommon leadership and decision-making skills to save her nation in a time of trouble and to become a spokeswoman for God, telling of His divine revelation and strategy,, I pray that you bravely take on the same mantle and walk in the anointing of wisdom and revelation as counsellor and problem solver.
“I declare that you will speak right words to awaken men and women in powerful places to advocate and endorse God’s kingdom rule and advancement in the earth.
“Once again our congratulations Hon Cora, Gods richest blessings to you as you lead
“Let me also offer words of congratulations to the leader of our youth arm, Miss Calniya Hughes, a young woman who has demonstrated excellent leadership skills and potential, whose deliberations are always, sound, intelligent and positive and who inspires and motivates. Congratulations Calniya!
“At this time I express our thanks to all the women who over the years have played a role in advancing the AUF party, but especially to B londell Rogers who has been the leader of the Women’s Arm for a number of years.
“At this juncture, I pause to say thanks to everyone who have placed their trust and confidence in me to be the next leader of the women’s arm for the ensuing years. I am very much aware that the challenges ahead may be daunting but as women and a party generally, let us put our faith and trust in the Almighty to see us through these very difficult times. I also implore all of us as women to band together for the common good of all.
“Let me remind you at this juncture of the significant role played by our women in the birth of our democracy during the 1967 Revolution.
The women were in the forefront of that cause. And so this afternoon we pause for a moment to honour the memory and contribution of the first two women who under the ANA regime played a significant role in this party and the development of Anguilla. I speak of Hon Idalia Gumbs and the Hon Albena Lake Hodge and on whose shoulders we as women now stand. Indeed they have left an indelible imprint on the socio economic and political landscape of this nation Anguilla.
“Talk to a man and you get more talk and little action. Talk to a woman and you get it done! It is with this mantra in mind that the womens arm of this party will continue to work on the platform of advancing the cause of women in Anguilla and I am therefore asking all women to come on board as we work for the common good of all. I cannot do it alone or with a few of us. Women we need all of you.
“However the highlight of this meeting is the leadership transition as the leadership of the party is being passed on to the Hon Cora Richardson-Hodge and it is only in order that we as women of this party officially say thanks to one of the best of Anguilla’s leaders the Hon Victor F Banks. For over forty years Mr Banks has served this nation of Anguilla and he has done so with excellence. Mr Banks this evening we want to say thanks for the wonderful service that you have rendered to the Governments and people of Anguilla over the years of your service. Your strength, your valour and your equally calm and reassuring disposition are to be admired. There are some who may be ungrateful for the service you have rendered over the years but I can assure you this afternoon that many of us are grateful to you for how you have led us through an often toxic environment with good intent and deciveness in your decision making. I know that your very strong faith in God has seen you through the worst of times.
“Your skill of good sound and intelligent communication, your personable disposition and your ability to connect with all and sundry compounded with your love and compassion for all humankind are qualities which ought to be admired.
“As you now officially transition to retirement status and take your very well deserved rest, I can only pray that God grants you long life, health, peace, strength and above all his salvation. You have served your nation with DISTINCTION. MAY GOD GRANT YOU HIS SHALOM PEACE.
“CONGRATULATIONS AND MAY GOD BLESS ANGUILLA”
