PM urges foreign-based nationals to contribute to and comprehend history

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – IN the most recent edition of his bi-monthly video messages to nationals living in the diaspora, Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr. the Hon. Denzil Douglas them to realise and comprehend the significance of their history.

The Prime Minister’s appeal echoes similar sentiments made by him earlier this week on his weekly “Ask the PM” programme on ZIZ Radio. He had made several similar statements throughout February, which is internationally recognised and celebrated as Black History Month.

Douglas called history “a constant reminder of the long road black persons had travelled, of the traumas they had endured and the triumphs they had seen”. The PM stated that he could not choose one defining moment as the greatest, but noted that all great moments in black history shared similar features.

“When I reflect on our greatest moment as a people, whether it was the winning of universal suffrage here at home or the election of Barack Obama in the US, whether it was the end of apartheid in South Africa or the establishment of UWI, our proudest moments have always grown out of two common trends. These are unity of purpose and perseverance in the face of great odds,” said Douglas.

The PM reminded persons of the significance of their personal contribution to history. He reiterated the government’s commitment to preserving and enhancing the history of the Federation.

“At this time of global tumult, I would like for Kittitians and Nevisians both at home and abroad to remember in all that we do or fail to do, we are in the process of writing our own chapter in black history today. Let us therefore keep the lines of communication open, as it is communication that makes unity of purpose possible.

“Despite the uncertainty creeping across the globe, the government remains disciplined in its deliberations and careful in its commitment. For it is prudent management and perseverance in the face of global odds that will make success and stability in the St. Kitts and Nevis chapter of black history possible.