EDITORIAL - Let’s show our pride and patriotism

As October comes to a close, Barbadians appear to be getting into the swing of things for this year’s 50th Anniversary of Independence next month.

 

The level of patriotism seems relatively high, and citizens can be seen sporting their Independence colours of  blue, yellow and black  or the official ultramarine and gold, with schools and businesses designating Fridays as the day to wear our national colours. 

 

Of course, this has to do with the fact that Barbadians recognise and appreciate the importance of celebrating 50 years of nationhood as an independent nation.

 

In previous years, as November approached, there would be a debate centred around those companies that would make a decision to skip the Independence celebrations, in an effort to move straight into their Christmas festivities. 

 

During the month of October, credit unions, banks and other lending institutions would normally highlight their Christmas loans and specials. This is even the case this year, to a certain extent. We understand that companies and businesses have to focus on making a profit, and there is therefore a push to get out of the blocks ahead of others in promoting offerings for the Christmas period, which can be a big money earner. We are aware also that many persons complain that the Independence period is at times low-key and those in business have to look ahead to the period that follows. However, this year, there is much to celebrate and whilst some are already focusing on the Christmas period, there is no denying the anticipation and excitement as people await the Independence celebrations and prepare in the process.

 

A picture truly is worth a thousand words and from the looks of things, the Independence fever is spreading. Barbadians here and abroad are quite enthusiastic about celebrating their 50th Anniversary of Independence. Taxi men and ordinary motorists have started displaying the Barbadian flag on their cars and motor vehicles.  Buildings are now being draped in the Independence colours. Let’s not forget the numerous activities already planned for the month of November at the national level, as well as the level of the community also.

 

As the country draws closer to celebrating its Golden Jubilee, Prime Minister The Rt. Hon Freundel Stuart has asked Barbadians to show their patriotism, decking themselves and the island out in the official colours of ultramarine and gold, or what we Bajans would describe as blue and yellow. The Prime Minister has outlined a host of upcoming events leading up to the big day on November 30th. These activities include an enhanced Independence Day Parade and the Mega Concert where Barbados’ international singing sensation, Rihanna, will sing the National Anthem, whilst accompanied by a multi-school choir. It has been noted that communities and the private sector are also free to host their own events.

 

The Prime Minister has meanwhile suggested that Barbadians should use this time of the year to really celebrate, in spite of the challenges facing us at the internal and external level. We agree. 

 

There is no time like the present to truly give thanks for how far we have come, in spite of how far we may need to go. Let us usher in the swiftly approaching Independence period with pride and let us display a greater level of patriotism.