An Independence Day Message by Raymona Henry-Wynne, Executive Director of the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF)
On this 43rd Anniversary of Saint Lucia’s Independence, February 22, 2022, let us all take this opportunity to reflect on the true meaning of why we are celebrating.
Today is a day to reflect while we celebrate the stride we have made as a nation state. In fact, it’s a time to look in three dimensions, namely, in retrospect, in introspect, and in prospect. Yes, it’s a time to ponder anew from whence we have come, where we are, and where we are going. No doubt we are a Nation who has shown the world that we are a nation destined for greatness. The evidence speaks for itself i.e. “Two Nobel Laureates”
Saint Lucia’s journey towards greatness is evident in that Her, “Sons and Daughters’ who have excelled in diverse fields of endeavor such as, Economics, Sports, Entertainment, Arts & Culture, Education and Politics to name a few. It is a day to take pride in our rich heritage, cultural expressions and country’s achievements in different spheres. We have taken our cultural heritage to the table of civilization and have excelled at the highest level. Yes, we Can and Have!
To our freedom fighters, to our soldiers, to our heroes of the nation, our ancestors, they are the raison d’etre of our foundation, and we should never forget their sacrifice. Let us all salute our unsung heroes and the entire nation. May this spirit of freedom lead us all to success and glory in life.
We are all born destined to be free “moral” agents as it is the way God intended us. Something that no one can take away from you. Today, we breathe the air of freedom because of the efforts of our great men and women who fought for our freedom. Freedom does not see colour, creed or class. Let us celebrate our Freedom!
There is enough hate and violence in the world, and now we need to build a better future, full of love, unity and understanding. No matter what our religion or political affiliation in the end, we are all Saint Lucians, one people, one nation. May our nation become the one that loves with no limit, uplifts our brothers and sisters, celebrates each other’s achievement and moves with integrity for the good of this nation. We are resilient, innovative and creative people. The top is reached by striving. Thus, by dint of hard work we can become a model of success and prosperity for the world.
In the words of the Mighty Pele who sang in his calypso rendition “IF”. He sang, “If I could I would take my people and my country right up to the peak of prosperity”.
Yes, Sons and daughters of Saint Lucia, if we love the land that gave us birth. Yes, together we can take our beloved country to higher Heights to fulfill his Dream of Prosperity.
May your spirits rise with the flag today!
Here is to a wonderful Independence Day!
“Douvan Ansanm: Celebrating our people.” Bon fet!