BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Federation’s Political Leader, Dr. the Hon. Timothy Harris, has used the celebration of the National Heroes to encourage youths in St. Kitts and Nevis to use their talents, gifts, skills and integrity to secure the nation’s prosperity.
Addressing a gathering of Cabinet members, representatives of the Diplomatic Corps, citizens and residents at the Heroes Park this morning (Sept. 16), Dr. Harris intimated that “you must be faithful over a little so that you can be set over much, and enter into the joy of your country”.
Acknowledging the contributions made by the five National Heroes - the Rt. Excellent Sir Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw, the Rt. Excellent Sir Paul Southwell, the Rt. Excellent Sir Joseph Nathaniel France, Dr. the Rt. Excellent Sir Simeon Daniel, and Dr. the Rt. Excellent and Dr. the Rt. Hon. Sir Kennedy Alphonse Simmonds – Dr. Harris said he hopes that “their example of selfless and outstanding service will be emulated by present and future generations”.
“These, our sons, came from humble beginnings and yet each one gave back to St. Kitts and Nevis much that has improved it and ennobled us a civilization. These men rose from a variety of circumstances. They refused to be constrained and pigeon-holed. Through discipline, hard work and ingenuity, they made their mark indelibly on the national life of St. Kitts and Nevis.”
Dr. Harris’s speech, which was in keeping with the theme focusing on youths, also pointed to the possibility of making Buckley’s a heritage site and those who sacrificed their lives recognized as national heroes.
“During the course of those riots, three persons sacrificed their lives - Joseph Samuel, John Allen and James Archibald. Nine others were injured, including two women in Olive Allen and Virginia Greaux.
“The question now is, should Buckley’s be declared a national heritage site? Should any among the leaders of the rebellion be declared National Heroes? Is there a special place for Olive Allen and/or Virginia Greaux among the distinguished pantheon of National Heroes?”
Looking ahead to the 2018 Independence Celebration, Dr. Harris disclosed that the Government in partnership with the St. Christopher National Trust and Museum would be inviting citizens, especially youths, to do research and nominate a male or female “enslaved person for due recognition”.
“We see the foregoing as likely to ensure that all of the citizens can recognize the outstanding contribution of our fellowmen and women upon whose shoulders we now stand in 2017. We must recognize these contributors over all of the years.
“Our National Heroes have bequeathed a nation that has progressed substantially overtime. The present and future generations possess the ability to take this great nation to an even higher plateau of development and engagement. Let us not be shy in doing so.”
This year’s Independence Celebration is being held under the theme “Youth, Vision, Integrity: Securing our Nation’s Prosperity”.
The Independence calendar has been curtailed due to the impact of Hurricane Irma.
Today’s event also saw various officials and family members laying wreaths in remembrance of the four deceased National Heroes.
