Foreign nationals speak out on nation’s birthday

 Dr Glenville Ashby

glenvilleashby@gmail.com

They reside in a distant land, hundreds of thousands miles away. They are educators, entertainers, fashion designers, authors and au pairs—plying their trade with diligence—fully acculturalised. It is said, though, that home is where the heart lives. And there is never a day that a reminder touches them, cementing the bond to their homeland.

With Trinidad and Tobago celebrating its 49th anniversary today, they spoke, passionately, their views as eclectic as the ethnic diversity of the nation.

Some nationals were salutatory and celebratory. Others were provocatively edgy, instructive, and even foreboding—calling for nation-wide introspection.

From Baltimore

From the suburbs of Baltimore, Michelle Gumbs, 44, and a licensed holistic therapist spoke in transcendental terms, dismissing the concept of independence—replacing it with interdependence.

“Our people must realise that we need each other on every level, and work together with understanding and respect, and not from a place of suspicion and fear. This is what leads to true national development.”

Professional writer, Sue-Ann Commissiong interestingly compared the anniversary to the game of cricket: “We have displayed dedication and tenacity to get us to 49. It means we could make it to a handsome 100, while securing a solid place for those who will bat after us.”

Calypsonian speaks

On his way to a performance in Brooklyn, popular calypsonian Designer (Keith Prescott), expressed appreciation for his formative years as a young man growing up in Laventille and Tunapuna. He was optimistic, but measured, as he discussed the cultural and artistic bearings of the twin island state.

“We have had a checkered history but I am proud to be a son of T&T. Everything I do as a musician here is what my land has taught me, and based on what I have seen and heard, the culture is in good hands,” he said. On the question of repatriating, he remained non-committal, offering the adage, “You never know what tomorrow will bring.”

Dysfunctional ruling

Meanwhile, in Suffolk County, Dr Mahin Gosine is preparing for the upcoming semester at the local college. He is a prolific author and anthropology professor. He has spent 43 years in the US. He spoke with deliberation, every thought articulated for effect. His Independence Day message blended history and contemporary politics, ever consistent with his academic standing.

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“Trinidad and Tobago has made commendable strides but still lacks the fundamental infrastructural requirements of any civil society,” he stated. He lauded the accomplishments of past govern­ments, but never silent on their failures. 

He was particularly severe on the ruling party which he called dysfunctional, and disappointing, and challenged the nation to be forthcoming on race relations, citing “senior appointments in governments favouring one group.” He believed that “healing is only possible through an open dialogue on race and no one is willing to address that area.”

Diversity divides

A similar view on the underlying social distrust was expressed by fashion executive, Cleo Patton, CEO of the Manhattan based model management agency that bears her name.

“I’m amazed that we’ve allowed our diversity to divide us. At one time this made us unique and intriguing. We have to embrace that again and share it with the world. We are one family and one blood.” 

On this subject, University lecturer, Dr Michele Reis appealed to the nation to protect its cultural, racial, and religious diversity.

Public health lacking

Dr Nurah Amat’ullah, executive director of Muslim Women’s Institute for Research and Development in the Bronx, also delivered a sobering message.

“One area of challenge is the growing rate of urban poverty resulting in high rates of crime.” She also referred to “an inadequate public health system and the lack stewardship of the natural resources and the environment,” as key concerns that must be addressed, “as the nation matures.”

Our people are resourceful

Again, varied views with that single commonality—an enduring love and concern for the nation. 

Indeed, the contribution of Deo Gosine, chairman of the India-Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Commerce (ITTCO) may best reflect the sentiments of all: “Our people are resourceful and we have great strength in our diversity, but we need visionaries who will set us on a new path of growth and prosperity for the next 25 years. This can be done by utilising our natural resources, the creative talents of our people, and the scholarship and success of our diaspora. May God bless Trinidad and Tobago and all her people.”

—Dr Glenville Ashby

New York correspondent

The Guardian Media Group