By Michron Robinson
The legacy of former leaders in the Democratic Labour Party must live on, says party President Dr Ronnie Yearwood.
“Let no one set aside the memory of Errol Barrow, or the memory of any person who has contributed tirelessly to this party and to this country. We shall never forget our heroes of this party or the builders of this country,” he said ahead of Errol Barrow Day on Saturday.
Dr Yearwood was speaking during the unveiling of A Tribute to Fallen Comrades, a Memorial Wall at the DLP’s George Street Belleville headquarters on Thursday evening.
During the event, former stalwarts were honoured including the late Prime Minister David Thompson, Sir Branford Taitt, Sir Warwick Franklin, Lady Gertrude Eastmond and Dr Owen Eversley.
Dr Yearwood said the unveiling marked a renewed promise to give back to those who gave of their life, blood, sweat and tears to the party.
“In all of these persons putting themselves forward it was not only them that came to the DLP. I understand you cannot represent this country or party unless your family is with you. You sacrifice yourself and your family. It’s a very special club that few of us will understand,” he explained.
He said he would like for Barbadian youth to celebrate and remember the life of the Father of Independence on Errol Barrow Day.
“He’s really the original social justice warrior. I know that’s a term that we use now, but if you think about it, all the young people and all the modern concepts – Errol Barrow was there. He was probably the single greatest leader in Barbados and dare I say the Caribbean,” Dr Yearwood pointed out.
The DLP leader added that he would love for people to reflect on that legacy as Barrow impacted every sphere of Barbadian life including housing, women, culture, education and health.
Sir Branford’s daughter, Monique Taitt told the ceremony she felt honoured and humbled for her father’s legacy to be remembered. She spoke on the importance of legacy.
“Those we honoured this evening, wanted to and have left us their legacy – hands down. The evidence is there and the evidence is clear,” she said, adding her appreciation for the memorial wall.
Taitt called on the younger party leaders to use their time to create their own legacy.
“They have left their legacy and you can attest to that. Go and do your own thing. You have your legacy now to continue. Make it big, make it strong, make it real, make it true, make it honest, make it Democratic Labour Party,” she said to loud applause.
Thompson’s daughter Oya told the media that she felt good about the recognition.
“It’s great that they are remembering him and since it’s been so long since he passed. I remember that the DLP has always been a part of my life. I’ve been coming up here since I was born, every single Friday night and it feels nice to be back and around every single person,” she said.” (MR)
