Are we free or are we emancipated ?
Life in Barbados as in most Caribbean islands is a paradox. Dr. Barrow (1996) on the eve of Barbados’ independence said that no one wanted to be treated as a second-class citizen in perpetuity. His vision for us, Bajans, at the time was that we would physically and emotionally walk away from the plantation of colonial rule, a freed people. Dr. Barrow, in his most eloquent and optimistic expectations of Barbados, however, recognized that extricating ourselves from 300 years of colonial rule would be no easy task. For example,
the Barbados anthem written by Irving Burgie, reminds us of the mindset of that period. The anthem says, “In plenty and in time of need” showed a presentation of two opposing viewpoints and the heart of the paradox of Barbados and the Caribbean in general.
Barbados is one of the most progressive islands in the Caribbean, yet there remains so much opportunity to close the gap between emancipation and freedom. We have exceeded Dr. Barrow’s and most of our forefathers’ greatest expectations as an island. But how do we as Bajans move the needle of progress from emancipation, which is legally thrown off the plantation to freedom or the unrestricted use of our liberated minds.
We are celebrating Dr. Barrow’s vision and legacy of self-rule, and Barbados’ will to self-rule for the last 50 years. There is a practical application that we might capture for our own lives. Some of us might be at the crossroads of emancipation from the slavery of something in our lives with a desire for a liberated mind or disposition. Perhaps, this is the year we chose to celebrate with Barbados while we celebrate our own freedom and empowerment.
Happy 50th Anniversary Barbados!!
Happy empowerment year to YOU!! Today is your first day of social, psychological, financial, and emotional liberation! Believe it!
Bajan Hotsause: Stan