EDITORIAL - Barbadians have the power to effect change

Barbadians need an attitude adjustment. 

 

At the heart of many of this country’s problems lies a self-defeating belief that there is nothing the individual can do and that his/her fate is determined by others. It is time for that to change.

 

From the time children enter the school system they are taught to problem-solve by reproducing methods and learn through repetition, with very few subjects rewarding ingenuity. This type of 

indoctrination sets the stage for a skewed sense of self-esteem. Later, on leaving school, there is the belief that “you have to know somebody” before you can get a job which, unfortunately, does occur in some cases. Hence, once again, an individual’s sense of self-esteem is based on another’s validation. It is no surprise then that throughout life in this society people come to rely heavily on Government to solve their problems before attempting to work through their challenges on their own. This has led to a heavy burden being placed on social services.

 

Sadly, this helpless attitude has spread to various areas in society. What is ironic is that despite this perception of powerlessness, every citizen actually has the ability to effect change.

 

The first example of an individual’s power is their freedom to speak. Regardless of your station in life, you have the right to air and debate opinions. The media plays a vital role at this stage by extending the discussion to a national level whereby eventually all sides of the coin can be heard and maybe a consensus formed. There will always be some in opposition, but as a democratic society the majority rules and whatever decisions are made must be made with the majority in mind.

 

Another example of a citizen’s power lies in their right to peaceful protest. Barbados has had few protests in comparison to other countries, but the few have generally been instrumental in showing solidarity behind a cause. Currently there are protests in the United States of America against the policies of US President Donald Trump, all aimed at addressing the immigration crackdown being implemented.

 

Thirdly, people have the power to not only elect their representatives in Parliament, but to contest the elections themselves. Each election there are a scattering of independent candidates who put themselves up as potential representatives. In the past they have not been well received, but there is nothing prohibiting alternatives to the traditional candidates and parties to which we have become accustomed. People could also seek to become a fresh face in one of the established political parties.

 

Finally, but more importantly, while it would be easier to effect change at the level of policy through political means, there are several non-governmental organisations that allow for people to make significant contributions to society and effect change at both the community and national level.

 

Barbadians therefore need to have faith in their abilities and resilience and know that they can and will do whatever they set their minds to. Do not wait for Government or any other organisation or group to give you a handout or hand up. Instead, we need more progressive-thinking, entrepreneurial-spirited people to take charge and lead the way.

 

Enough talking and belly-aching, it is time for action.