I am writing in total support and commend Rev. Dr. Clifton Niles one of Anguilla’s very own esteemed theologians; for sharing his opinion expressing concern regarding “Dealing Effectively with Crime on Anguilla.” Based on the sensitive manner in which he addressed those concerns; I believe that he also has the support of many Anguillans, “ex-pats” and residents.
I concur with him that in no way, can we sit back throw our hands up, give up and write off Anguilla’s children. And in no way, can we sit back and let anyone plan to send our children off to England. I firmly believe that among many children who are written off as (“own way”) therein lies a gem that is waiting to be polished. For instance, one of the most successful television entertainment moguls; and one of the world’s most renowned pediatric neurosurgeons (both African Americans from humble beginnings); by their own admission would not have made it, had they been written off due to youthful blunders.
Let me affirm and appeal to those concerned individuals of goodwill (Anguillans, “ex-pats,” residents); as a community of well meaning rational thinking individuals; that we can and will continue to nurture, support, provide guidance and touch Anguilla’s children, so that they can flourish and reach their full potential. As a reminder, in the wisdom of our African ancestors “it takes a village to raise a child.”
In my humble opinion, there is no one solution or strategy that is workable to make Anguilla “crime free.” As Dr. Niles mentioned, the issue of crime prevention must take a “wholistic approach” for any short term or long term strategy to provide positive results. Of honorable mention, one of Anguilla’s descendants (U.S Department of State and U.S Department of Commerce employee retired), both parents were Anguillan, home grown Anguillan pride, reared in a traditional Anguillian community in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, Founder of the Anguilla Pocket Billiards Association, considers Anguilla home); has developed a unique program with a “wholistic” approach, as an instrument for social change that will benefit Anguilla and her children. The program is developed on and around short term and long term goals that will transform the lives of a cross-section of Anguilla’s youth; as well as provide futuristic lucrative opportunities for Anguilla’s overall economy and its tourism sector.
To be more specific, based on the program’s “wholistic approach,” Anguilla’s youth from various communities will come together and learn how to interact with each other in a positive peaceable manner; participate in group dynamics for goal planning, life skills, career readiness, decision making and learning how to make positive choices; upgrade their oral, written communication, critical thinking and academic skills that will enhance their self-esteem and self-worth; build a strong sense of good character, discipline and self-motivation; appreciate and celebrate their Anguillan heritage; understand and practice team spirit and team work; learn to solve disputes through peer mediation and undergo skills training in managerial entrepreneurial leadership. These skills will elevate the consciousness of a cross-section of Anguilla’s youth; with a renewed sense of home grown pride to have responsibility and accountability as members of their island community of Anguilla and the global village.
I humbly take this opportunity to make a special urgent appeal for humanitarian reasons; to the “ex-pat” community on Anguilla, major hoteliers and tourism sector executives (and all those others who are similarly situated); to please send an email to this individual richughes@erols.com, invite him to Anguilla to review his program proposal and begin meaningful dialogue. I believe that based on your love for our beautiful island home of Anguilla; you will gladly pledge and provide support, necessary resources and raise the seed money to implement this “wholistic approach” for the betterment of Anguilla and her children. Give them a second chance to turn their lives around and make positive changes. I am confident that you will find favour with my humble opinion; as it is intended to make peace with the situation and break the cycle of pain.
In closing, “to whom so much is given so very much is required” and “each one must teach one, reach one and leave no one behind.” When there is a crisis within our midst, it may seem to pose a danger, but therein lurks wonderful marvelous opportunities to turn those negatives into positives. Let us all work together to keep our beautiful island of Anguilla crime free. Yes we can!
Thank you for your kind generous support and affirmative response to this humanitarian appeal.
Name held upon request
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper)
