#BTSpeakingOut – Caribbean unity is key

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by this author are their own and do not represent the official position of the Barbados TODAY Inc.

 by Ajani Griffith

“The wise man will extend his wisdom to all parts of life. Nothing can bring you greatness but yourself. Nothing can bring peace and freedom to mankind but the triumph of principles, the triumph of good over evil, a good over evil.” – Haile Selassie

The roots of our consciousness shall grow in the harmony of one love, unity, one Justice, all under one God.

We promote a clear hope to all mankind, but emphasising that if the strong oppresses the weak, confusion and discontent will ever mark our paths.

The long-standing embargo foisted on us in the diaspora of the Caribbean over six decades ago by the Government of the United States needs to be permanently discredited and abandoned.

In more recent times, the many crippling and shameful economic measures instituted by the then Trump regime have only exacerbated these difficulties and impeded our Government response to the peoples’ pleas for help.

Barbados and other members of the Caribbean Community have repeatedly raised their voices at the United Nations in calling for an end to the embargo and the inhuman suffering which strangles our cry for our human right to exist in peace and harmony.

Authentic leadership does not mean domination and sanctions. Because, until the philosophy which holds one race superior and another inferior, well everywhere will be a conflict.

Whether economic, political, social, geopolitical or neoliberal etc. Basic human rights must be equally guaranteed to all without regard to race or place. How can we dream and attain lasting peace when there exists a people thinking it’s their given right to subjugate and exploit.

Travellers to the Caribbean are invited to see these nations not only in a recreational, relaxing mirror but also as places of genuine hospitality and treasured culture. Within this culture exists a strong and positive appreciation which welcomes all faiths under an ethical and civil atmosphere.

The Caribbean has arrived at a place where its way of life and social order invites emulation.

However large elements of a foreign-controlled self-centered business sector has grown somewhat deaf to the unskilled and struggling poor.

If this continues it can lead us into a cycle of political upheaval and social unrest. It can successfully meet its current and prospective economic challenges but a magnitude of expenditure is still a cause for grave concern.

I am not sure how much longer the Caribbean in general can avoid remedying this issue. We would find it extremely difficult to withstand another major economic shock.

A determination towards Caribbean unity will be our only prosperity and saviour. We are called to seek justice and work toward a better world, and to work with others seeking to do the same.

Working together on our differing methods and opinions while focusing on goals that unite us, not threats and embargoes which divide us.