#BTColumn – Emphasis on self sufficiency

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 Everton “Heru” Holligan Chairperson

COVID-19 may be just the dress rehearsal. Are you ready for the next calamity? This must be the question we all pose to ourselves irrespective of what the government is focused on. The value of strong community connection is the next best step in preparation for the unexpected.

The United Progressive Party (UPP) has always believed in offering a strong community policy platform to Barbados. The advent of COVID-19 has demonstrated that the stronger your community, the better you would be individually to deal with any catastrophe whether it be pandemic, prolonged utility outages or hurricane.

The communities which are normally considered disadvantaged when a pandemic or catastrophe hits, could be the best prepared for the worst.

These groups of people are often more closely knit and interact with each other more often. We must not allow the digital era to disrupt this unique connectivity. Now is the time to organise.

This is the opportune moment to grab hold of community leaders and begin to have meaningful conversation about protecting and providing for the infants, children, mothers and the elderly. The truth is you cannot depend on or wait for the government to act quickly enough on your behalf. The Government is more likely dealing with macro issues.

COVID-19 has resulted in the devastation of our economy and thus, it may be best to acknowledge that you may be on your own.

People power can bring great relief. In times of need and panic we can help each other. It begins with organisation.

1. Start having community meetings with the youth especially and other interest groups.

2. Appoint leaders with integrity who are capable of managing the task of community organisation.

3. Have weekly meetings about the needs of the community and how to look after assisting the most vulnerable.

4. Identify land that can be used in community farming projects.

5.  Find and or source experts in the areas you need assistance with.

6. Continue to build your organisation.

7. Be patient, listen to each other and be empathetic and respectful as you discuss your plans to build community resilience.

Your mission will be to have communities or groups of people within communities organised to take on specific task to ensure there is enough food, adequate shelter, access to water, and other basic necessities in the likelihood of a disaster or other unnatural occurrence that disrupts your livelihoods.

Keep planning.

The possibilities are limitless and our children will benefit from our time invested in building organisations. Freedom and self-sufficiency begin with the first step of valuing self and each other, which drives you to organise to protect and defend your way of life. Community provides you with the security and stability to access your greatness. The future is uncertain, let us plan now to succeed.

Everton “Heru” Holligan Chairperson of the UNITED PROGRESSIVE PARTY.