EDITORIAL

With just over a week to go before the official 50th Independence of Barbados, it is gratifying to see the outward expression of pride in the country. Whether in the form of flags, pins or other paraphernalia, each year – and particularly this special year – Barbadians are eager to exhibit their heritage. 

 

In the midst of this fervent display, however, it is important not to lose sight of the fact that there is more to being Bajan than hanging a few flags. One must have an awareness of the deeper facts and context to put current conditions into perspective. For example, the naming of the National Heroes was a huge talking point in 1998 when the decision was announced by Government. Out of that discussion, there is room for all persons to learn of other prominent persons mentioned, and just how we have benefited from their contributions. 

 

In addition, free education to the secondary (and at one time tertiary) level was a landmark act that contributed to the socio-economic upliftment of many Barbadians and led to an expanded middle class. And yet, how many young people know of the conditions under which some children had to attend school – without shoes in some cases – or that despite free education, not all children attended past the primary level, especially those who had a large family and/or very impoverished circumstances?

 

It is therefore a little distressing to hear others speak of not seeing any reason to celebrate 50 years. We would never suggest that conditions such as poor water supply or refuse collection be swept under the carpet. However, when one studies this country’s history, recognising the pride that Barbadians back in the 1960s had on attaining Independence, and knowing of the strides made in the years since, it is difficult to accept the rhetoric that our current challenges should blind us to the gains we have made, and negate the need to express gratitude for what we have achieved.

 

In short, Barbados’ upward path of mobility clearly shows how much we’ve overcome and it is in that vein, with those positives, that our younger generation should be educated. In much the same way, we are well versed in the struggles of global figures such as Martin Luther King or Nelson Mandela, our youth must know our local heroes, how the forces of poverty and economic despair and the rise of the trade union movement led to significant changes that are still felt today, and taken for granted. We hope this knowledge would be cause for inspiration and positivity in their own lives, to let them know they can accomplish the best because their “brave forefathers sowed a seed, from which our pride is sprung”. 

 

We, the media, and adults, must educate our youth – in age and technologically appropriate ways – about these historical dynamics, whether by creating Internet videos, apps or online games. Not only that, these formats are easy for tourists or members of the Diaspora to delve into Barbados’ history. In that way, we can learn more about ourselves to help chart the future.