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PJ Patterson Calls for United Global Africa to Reshape World Order
P.J. Patterson, the elder statesman and former Prime Minister of Jamaica has issued a powerful rallying cry to the worldwide African diaspora — calling on “Global Africa” to unite and mobilize for meaningful change.
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In a powerful address titled “Africa in Transition: Locating the Place and Space of Global Africa and the World,” Patterson, speaking as the Statesman in Residence at the eponymous P.J. Patterson Institute for African Caribbean Advocacy, outlined a vision of “Global Africa” that transcends continental boundaries to include African descendants across the globe.
He was addressing the “Africa in Transition Conference” held in Accra, Ghana earlier this month, which invited renowned thought leaders, academics, and change-makers from around the world to dissect the complexities, opportunities, and challenges that are shaping Global Africa’s experience today.
In a well-received presentation, Patterson explained that “Global Africa extends beyond the continent to include people of African descent wherever they may reside on Mother Earth.”
He emphasized that this global identity is rooted in the rich, multidimensional cultural practices not only across Africa but also in communities throughout Central and Latin America, the Caribbean, and any space where African identity is central to its worldview.
He highlighted vibrant cultural expressions such as “the Santería communities of Cuba, the Danza del Diablo in Mexico, the Candomblé gatherings of Brazil, and the Garífuna songs in Honduras” as embodiments of Global Africa in action.
These traditions, Patterson noted, showcase the diversity and cultural identity of African descendants while connecting them to a global network of cultural production.
A Shared History of Exploitation
Patterson pointed to the historical forces that dispersed Africans worldwide and didn’t mince words about the atrocities of slavery and colonialism.
He reminded his academic audience of “the shared history of pilferage and exploitation,” underscoring that the brutal transatlantic slave trade was central to “a system of European banditry and the economic prosperity of North America.”
This genocidal enterprise depleted Africa of 12 to 15 million young men and women and was followed by the “scramble for Africa and its partitioning further plundering and devouring its resources, both human and natural, solely for the aggrandizement of European imperial powers.”
The legacy left to descendants was one of enduring racism and poverty. “We must insist on a full apology, due reparations, and all the prescribed elements of reparatory justice,” Patterson asserted.
Continued online at www.nycaribnews.com
‘Haitians want to be able to live, not just survive’ says UN Humanitarian Coordinator
Haiti continues to endure a multifaceted and deep-rooted crisis.
Around 1.6 million people in the country are not getting enough to eat while the capital, Port-au-Prince, is in the grip of armed gang violence that has claimed thousands of lives since January this year and displaced more than 700,000 people. To combat this violence, the UN Security Council authorized a non-UN multinational security support mission. The first troops were deployed earlier this year under the leadership of Kenya.
UN News’s Cristina Silveiro interviewed the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for the country, Ulrika Richardson, during her last visit at the UN headquarters in New York.
Ulrika Richardson: The situation in Haiti is very critical, especially in the capital. You could even say that there are two realities in the country.
Gangs continue to exert their influence and control over many districts of the capital. This means that for the population, life is almost impossible, with the risk of being killed by stray bullets, but also of being attacked and raped.
Many neighbourhoods are completely under the control of gangs who impose brutal violence. And they don’t stop themselves from gang-raping women and children. They recruit children into their ranks, and that is extremely worrying. There are many displaced people; it is estimated that there are over 700,000 internally displaced people in the country.
On the other hand, the reality is a little different in the rest of the country where life goes on, even though there are many displaced people fleeing to the south and even to the north.
UN News: Faced with this situation, what are the Haitians demanding?
Ulrika Richardson: Haitian people want what you and I want: they want to be able to live, not just survive.
Young people say that they have dreams and that they want the opportunity to fulfil them, just like everyone else in the world.
Parents want their children to go to school. It’s a sign of hope for them. The planned reopening of classes in October took place in very difficult conditions, and not all the children were able to return to school.
So, this means that Haitians want to live in dignity. They want to be able to leave their homes without risking their lives. They want to be able to live, have a job and go to work.
UN News: Faced with this situation of violence, the Security Council has mandated a multinational security support mission to strengthen the Haitian national police. Part of this mission was deployed this year. Is its presence having a palpable impact?
Ulrika Richardson: What we can see is that the violence is still there.
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UK – Foreign Secretary Lammy Says Reparations Is Not Cash Transfer
The foreign secretary of the United Kingdom stated on November 4th, 2024, that the “transfer of cash” is not the goal of reparations for the United Kingdom’s involvement in the slave trade. He also reaffirmed his nation’s stance, which tends to be future-oriented.
A “meaningful, respectful, and truthful” debate of reparatory justice was demanded by leaders at the recent 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, one of several requests for a reckoning with Britain’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade.
“As a descendant of enslaved people with parents from Guyana, I recognize that
slavery was ‘horrendous’ and had left ‘scars,’ ” British Foreign Secretary David Lammy told the BBC during a visit to Nigeria.
But, according to Lammy, people would rather consider the future than argue over restitution.
“It’s not about the transfer of cash, particularly at a time of a cost-of-living crisis around much of the globe, and certainly in the U.K.,” he stated.
To achieve “respectful partnerships that listen rather than tell, deliver long-term growth rather than short-term solutions, and build a freer, safer, more prosperous continent,” Lammy stated that Britain is
adopting a new strategy for dealing with African countries.
The United Kingdom, whose riches were accumulated via the transatlantic slave trade, has never publicly apologized for its slavery part, while a few other countries, such as the Netherlands, have.
King Charles III impliedly accepted the demands for reparations during the most recent Commonwealth conference, but he also stated that the past could not be altered. Instead, he called on leaders to know the history and the “right language” “to guide us towards making the right choices in the future where inequality exists.”
University of Guyana to Offer 11 Honorary Doctorate Degrees
The University of Guyana (UG) has announced its 2024 list of outstanding Guyanese in the fields of science, business, the arts, and education who will be awarded honorary doctorates at this year’s convocation, marking its fourth annual honorary degree conferral. Recognizing outstanding graduates and leaders in a variety of professions, the prizes will be given out during the 58th Convocation, which takes place from November 7–16. Among the recipients are Sir Ronald Ramjattan, the founder of Barron Foods and a graduate of the University of Manitoba’s Faculty of Natural Sciences; Dr. Narendra Chetram Singh, a surgeon and medical pioneer from Toronto; Mr. Arif Ali, the founder of Hansib Publishing; and Prof. Ian Robertson, a specialist in linguistics and language.
Victor Compton Insanally, a philanthropist and businessman; Christopher Fernandes, a leader in the shipping industry; Ralph Bazilio, a specialist in finance and management; Ann Greene, a child rights advocate; Patrick Parbhu Dial, a historian and consumer advocate; Eze Rockcliffe, a renowned musician and cultural enthusiast; and Pauline Thomas, popularly known as “Auntie Comesee,” are among the other recipients.
The institution further clarified that a year-long procedure is used to choose candidates for the honorary doctorates. Honorary doctorate nominations are submitted through a university academic division at least a year before the award to allow for background study, the five approval stages, and shortlisting. According to the institution, the recipients of this symbolic
gesture of excellence must have been nominated and must be outstanding examples of decades of continuous achievement in their respective fields of service.
Among the most reputable food technologists and chemists is Sir Ronald Ramjattan. He founded Baron Foods Ltd. and serves as its CEO. The Muslim Education Trust College in Brickdam, Georgetown, was where Sir Ramjattan started his academic career. His love for chemistry brought him to the University of Guyana, where he graduated in 1972 with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. After completing his undergraduate studies, Mr. Ramjattan began working as a chemist with GUYSUCO before becoming a food technologist at Ricks & Sari Agro Industries Ltd. in Guyana. After being sent to oversee the business’s activities in Saint Lucia, he took the risky move to start his own business, Baron Foods Ltd., there in 1991.
Under the inspiring direction of Ronald Ramjattan, Baron Foods Ltd. has grown to become the Eastern Caribbean’s biggest producer of food-processing goods. With a range of more than 165 award-winning culinary items, the firm currently sells to international and Caribbean markets.
Among the many honors bestowed upon this renowned businessman are the Ernst & Young “Entrepreneur of the Year” 1999 Award and the Businessperson of the Year 1999 Award.
He also received the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in November 2014 from Queen Elizabeth II. An honorary degree for Excellence in Science will be given to Ramjattan, a well-
known philanthropist, on Thursday, November 7th at a ceremony at 4 p.m.
At the South Texas Health System, Dr. Narendra Singh serves as the Director of Pediatric Critical Care Services. His other role is that of Strategic Advisor to the Guyana Health Minister. He served as the Chief of Staff at Toronto’s Humber River Hospital until his retirement in 2018.
Additionally, Dr. Singh is an Associate Clinical Professor in the McMaster University Faculty of Medicine and the Program Director for the Pediatric Post Graduate Program at the University of Guyana/Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation. In order to alleviate Guyana’s high rates of neonatal and infant mortality, he established Guyana Help the Kids in 2009.
Among the many honors bestowed upon Dr. Singh are the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada Prix d’excellence (Specialist of the Year) and the Meritorious Service Medal of Canada. At the event on Saturday, November 9 at 4 p.m., he will receive an honorary degree for Excellence in Medicine.
As a newspaper publisher, Arif Ali has been publishing for and about the Caribbean in the United Kingdom for more than 50 years.
In 1973, he acquired West Indian World, and under his editorship, the publication flourished while advocating for various educational issues that affected black schoolchildren in Britain. Ali then went on to further engage and communicate with the Caribbean, African, and Asian communities by founding the Asian Digest (August 1980), the newspapers Caribbean Times (1981), Asian Times (1983), and African Times (1985), as well as Root Magazine (1987).
Hansib is still “the biggest and most diverse black book publisher in Britain” after Ali left his media businesses in 1997 to focus on book production. The 2024 Bocas Henry Swanzy Award for Distinguished Service to Caribbean Letters is one of the several honors he has received for his service. The ceremony honoring Mr. Ali’s honorary degree for Excellence in Literature is scheduled for Friday, November 8th at 4 p.m.
Professor Ian Robertson attended Queens College for his secondary education before continuing on to the University of the West In-
dies, Mona, where he earned a Special Honours degree in English. His Ph. D. in Linguistics was finished at the University of St. Augustine campus when he returned.
Prof. Robertson spent more than 40 years working in the educational systems of Trinidad and Jamaica and Guyana. In addition, he has been actively involved in the Caribbean Examinations Council’s activities, serving as the chair of the syllabus creation committee for the CAPE Communication Studies and as assistant chief examiner on the CSEC English panel. His scholarly contributions have addressed a variety of topics, such as English Language Education in the Caribbean, Creole Linguistics, and Caribbean Oral Traditions.
“In the world of Creole linguistics, he will be best remembered as the rediscoverer of Dutch-lexicon Creole in Guyana. His rediscovery of Berbice Dutch was not fortuitous. His personal exploration of the documented history of the language and the geography of Guyana convinced him that the language could not be extinct before he undertook the quest to find speakers. He applied his linguistic work to the educational needs of speakers of Creole languages at the level of teacher education through his face-to-face teaching and through his publications, both as sole author and in collaboration with other distinguished scholars”. The event will take place at 9 a.m. on Saturday, November 9th, when Prof. Robertson will receive an honorary degree for Excellence in Literature and Linguistics.
Patriarch of the Fernandes line, multinational shipping tycoon, and servant leader, Mr. John Fernandes has extensive expertise in business and administration, as well as in Guyana’s social, cultural, humanitarian, and sporting spheres. He completed his postsecondary studies at Pennsylvania State University and the Irish Management Institute. He presently serves as the John Fernandes Group of Companies’ chairman.
Additionally, from 2003 until 2010, Chris Fernandes was Germany’s Honorary Counsel to the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.
Continued online at www.nycaribnews.com
Haiti – Gangs Starving Children, Forcing Them to Recruit
Following months of unrelenting gang violence, hundreds of fatalities, and the overthrow of a government, Haiti is now dealing with yet another tragic problem that is certain to worsen the island nation’s problems for yet another generation. Amnesty International has gathered testimonies that reveal the recruitment of hundreds of youngsters by Haiti’s armed gangs. “We have documented heartbreaking stories of children forced to work for gangs: from running deliveries to gathering information and performing domestic tasks under threats of violence,” noted Amnesty International’s Americas director, Ana Piquer. Young boys as young as the age of six are being pushed to erect street barricades, function as lookouts, receive machine gun training, and are being ordered to take part in violent crimes including kidnappings. According to Piquer, older male gang members rape and commit other sexual crimes against girls who are under their care.
Approximately 90% of Haiti’s major city, Portau-Prince, is presently under the authority of 200 armed gangs, and a sizable portion of the nation is ungoverned. Gang leaders like Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizier have been able to carry out horrific crimes with little to no opposition due to the breakdown of law and order. It is not particularly new for youngsters to be involved in Haitian gangs. Between 30% and 50% of Haitian youngsters are somehow associated with armed organizations, according to Unicef. This can be explained in several socioeconomic ways.
Before gaining independence in 1804, Haiti,
the richest European colony in the Americas, organized the only successful slave uprising against its French colonizers. However, Haiti is now a failing state, with over half of its people living below the poverty level set by the World Bank.
According to data released by the International Fund for Agricultural Development, the impoverished nation has the highest rate of food insecurity in Latin America and the Caribbean, with one-third of the population going hungry every day. The country’s extreme poverty and lack of resources have left the populace desperate, and many of its children are lured into criminal organizations. Sometimes, the promise of a single meal is all it takes for a child to join a gang.
However, the disruption of law and order across the nation has surely prompted gangs to recruit more minors. Once indoctrinated, child soldiers make for inexpensive and lethal warriors, as is the case in most conflict areas. Another particular societal aspect also plays a role in some parents’ refusal to notice their kids entering gangs. Restaveks, a socioeconomic practice in Haiti, are connected to the high rate of kid recruitment by gangs.
A restavek, which means “to stay with” in Creole, is a kid given away by poor parents with the unspoken promise that they will be fed, cared for, and not starve to death. It has evolved into a contemporary kind of slavery.
According to the End Slavery Now organization, over “300,000 children are victims of domestic slavery” in Haiti at the moment. Many of these kids experience sexual and physical
finance minister of Jamaica.
Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon, a minister without a portfolio in the prime minister’s office who oversees information, skills, and digital transformation, will take over from William’s position as minister of education.
Meanwhile, newly elected St. Ann North
Eastern Member of Parliament Matthew Samuda rejoins the Cabinet as a Minister without a portfolio in the Ministry of Job Creation and Economic Growth. Williams is a highly competent candidate for the role. In addition to her BA (cum laude) in Economics from Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and her MBA with a finance focus from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton Business School, she is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).
abuse on a daily basis.
Sexual assault and child sex slavery are commonplace in countries ripped apart by civil conflict. It is more likely to occur in environments with a poor or nonexistent governance mechanism. Due to the conditions of criminal impunity created by this circumstance, different conflict players take advantage of youngsters sexually.
In Haiti, the practice of predatory child sexual slavery is well-established. Some personnel of the UN peacekeeping force stationed in Haiti were discovered to have been involved in a child sex ring after the 2010 earthquake that devastated the country and the cholera outbreak that followed.
At least 134 Sri Lankan peacekeepers were implicated, according to a 2017 investigation conducted by a news publication team. The troops have been known to sexually assault and impregnate females as young as 11, leaving them to raise their children by themselves. This enterprise exploited Haitian youngsters who were famished and impoverished in return for leftover food scraps from the soldiers.
The UN peacekeeping force admitted that it was in charge of “transactional sex” when it was stationed there.
Violence against children was referred to be a “silent emergency” of our day by UN SecretaryGeneral António Guterres in 2019.
Unfortunately, despite the seriousness of Guterres’ comments, not much is being done to address this situation.
Haiti is confronted with several existential issues. Some of them, like the gangs’ ubiquity and their terror tactics, are domestic.
But, as it is positioned on a geological fault line in an area vulnerable to violent storms, Haiti is particularly prone to natural calamities. The nation was crippled by a terrible earthquake in 2010 and a cholera outbreak in 2016, with consequences that will persist for decades. To exacerbate the situation, Haiti also lacks compassion. The people are now at the mercy of gang violence as a result of the international community’s lack of genuine participation, which has also led to the breakdown of Haiti’s civil society.
The operational capacity of the Kenyan-led policing mission, which is entrusted with reestablishing order, has been impacted by limited financing and equipment. Of the US$600 million initially promised for the expedition, only about US$400 million (£308 million) have come to fruition, with the US bearing an excessive financial burden.
The tragedies taking place in the distant Caribbean beneath the tropical heat seem to be of little concern to the world community, which is preoccupied with more well-known wars elsewhere.
Fayval Williams, a member of parliament for St Andrew East Rural, has been appointed by Prime Minister Andrew Holness to succeed Dr. Nigel Clarke as the
UN – Calls for Lifting of U.S. Embargo on Cuba
The United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday urged the United States to end its economic, commercial, and financial embargo against Cuba, renewing a demand it has made annually since 1992.
The UN said the resolution, titled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba,” passed overwhelmingly, with 187 votes in favor, two against (Israel and the US), and one abstention (Moldova).
“Though non-binding, the result drew attention to the relative isolation of the US regarding the embargo, which was first imposed in 1960 after former leader Fidel Castro came to power following the revolution,” the UN said.
“The resolution reaffirmed, among other principles, the sovereign equality of States, non-intervention and non-interference in their internal affairs and freedom of inter
national trade and navigation,” it added.
The UN said the Assembly also reiterated its call for all States to refrain from promulgating or applying restrictive laws and measures, in line with their obligations under the UN Charter and international law, which, inter alia, reaffirm the freedom of trade and navigation.
“[The General Assembly] once again urges States that have and continue to apply such laws and measures to take the steps necessary to repeal or invalidate them as soon as possible in accordance with their legal regime,” it said in the resolution.
the measures adopted by former US President Barack Obama in 2015 and 2016 to modify several aspects of the application of the embargo, “which contrast with the measures applied since 2017 to reinforce its implementation.”
Through the resolution, the UN said the General Assembly also decided to include
the agenda item entitled “necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba” in the provisional agenda of next year’s session.
Last November, the UN General Assembly also voted overwhelmingly against the United States’ economic and trade embargo against Cuba.
At the time, 187 States also voted against the embargo, with only the US and Israel voting against it and Ukraine abstaining.
In explaining its vote, the Representative of the United States, Paul Folmsbee, said that his country “stands resolutely” with the Cuban people.
“We strongly support their pursuit of a future with respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms,” he said, noting that sanctions are “one set of tools” in the US’ broader effort towards encouraging Cuba to advance democracy and promote respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
He said the US recognizes the challenges the Cuban people face, explaining that sanctions include exemptions and authorizations relating to exports of food, medicines, and other humanitarian goods to Cuba.
“The US opposes this resolution,” Folmsbee said, encouraging the General Assembly to urge the Cuban Government to adhere to its human rights obligations “and listen to the Cuban people and their aspirations to determine their own future.”
But Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodrí-
guez Parrilla said at the time that the more than 60-year blockade violates the rights of all Cuban men and women.
He said families lack goods, there are long queues, and excessively high prices, and the government makes great efforts to feed its people.
He said the blockade deprives the agricultural industry of funds to buy animal fodder, industrial equipment, and other necessities for food production.
Despite wavers on food products, Rodríguez said the US was violating rules of international trade.
“Cuba is prevented from buying from US companies and its subsidiaries in third countries, equipment, technologies, medical devices, and end use pharmaceuticals, and is, therefore. forced to acquire them at exorbitant prices by way of intermediaries or to replace them with less-effective generic drugs,” he said, citing testimony from Cuban families wrestling with serious illnesses.
“How different could [their] lives have been if Cuba was not prevented from acquiring directly from the US market the [medications] to prevent the spasms,” he wondered.
Rodríguez said 80 percent of the Cuban population has never known life without the crippling US blockade.
It is “an act of economic warfare, in times of peace”, creating a situation of ungovernability and an attempt to destroy the constitutional order, he said. (CMC)
NYC – Mayor Adams Trial Set for April 2025
Mayor Eric Adams’ federal corruption case was due to go to trial on April 21, 2024. The court stated that he was considerate of the mayor’s want for a speedy decision before the June primary.
Judge Dale Ho stated during a Friday court session, “I think that’s the earliest date that we can realistically shoot for.” Before voting started, he added, he thought it was critical that the people “have an answer one way or another.” Ten days before the primary on June 24, 2024, early voting will begin.
Adams was indicted on bribery and fraud allegations seven months before the planned trial date. Prosecutors have specifically charged the mayor with taking illicit gifts and travel benefits from Turkish authorities. He allegedly pushed fire authorities to expedite the opening of the Turkish consulate building in Manhattan in return.
Adams declared his intention to run for reelection and entered a not-guilty plea. In the history of contemporary New York City, he is the only incumbent mayor to face criminal charges.
Adams’ attorneys had urged that the
trial should start in March or early April, possibly earlier. One of the two attorneys representing the mayor in court in the recent ruling, Alex Spiro, claimed that the indictment had seriously harmed his chances of gaining a second term.
Spiro remarked, “You can’t lead as an indicted man,” adding that everyone believes he is guilty based on surveys.
Adams’ attorneys’ attempt to have the bribery count—which has garnered the most attention of the five counts against him—dismissed was also heard by the judge.
Citing federal law and recent Supreme Court rulings that have made quid pro quo schemes more challenging to prove, the defense said that prosecutors had not shown enough proof that Adams accepted a bribe.
Mayor John Bash’s attorney argued the indictment did not specify what Adams consented to do in return for travel advantages. The prosecution’s argument that Adams attempted to affect the “regulation and operation” of the Turkish consulate, he contended, is overly general.
In addition, Bash deleted three texts
that the prosecution used to show that the mayor exerted pressure on the fire commissioner to expedite the building’s opening.
The indictment mentions a correspondence the mayor made to the fire commissioner, stressing the significance of a special letter from the FDNY.
Adam noted, “They really need someone … by today if possible. If it is impossible please let me know and I will manage their expectation.”
“If this amounts to pressure, then anything does,” Bash noted in the recent ruling.
The prosecution said that their case satisfied the legal requirements for bribery.
“The action is causing the FDNY to acquiesce,” prosecutor Hagen Scotten stated. According to the evidence, Adams was “leaning on the fire commissioner,” he continued.
On the motion, the judge stated that he would make a decision “shortly.”
A second request the defense made to look into their allegations that prosecutors leaked material to news outlets was denied by him before the hearing. He stated in a recent decision that the mayor’s team had not demonstrated that the articles’ material came from “Government attorneys or their agents, as opposed to other individuals.”
UK – Conservatives Select Kemi Badenoch as Leader
As the Conservative Party of Britain attempts to recover from a catastrophic election loss that ended 14 years in office, the party chose outspoken MP Kemi Badenoch as its new head. Nearly 100,000 Conservatives voted for Badenoch (pronounced BADE-enock), the first black woman to take charge of a major British political party, over Robert Jenrick, her opponent.
Jenrick received 41,388 votes, while she received 53,806 in the party members’ online and postal poll. Badenoch succeeds former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who in July guided the Conservatives to their worst electoral outcome since 1832. The difficult task facing the new leader is to try to rebuild the party’s image following years of economic turmoil, scandal, and division; criticize Labor Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s policies on important issues like immigration and the economy; and put the Conservatives back in power at the next election, which is scheduled for 2029.
“The task that stands before us is tough but simple,” speaking to a packed house of Conservative legislators, workers, and journalists in London, Badenoch declared triumph. According to her, the party’s duties included creating promises and a governing strategy as well as holding the Labor administration responsible.
Regarding the party’s crushing defeat in the election, she stated “We have to be honest — honest about the fact that we made mistakes, honest about the fact that we let standards slip.”
Badenoch stated, “The time has come to tell the truth, to stand up for our principles, to plan for our future, to reset our politics and our thinking, and to give our party, and our country, the new start that they deserve.”
Born in London to Nigerian parents, Badenoch spent a large portion of her early years in the West African nation before working as a corporate secretary in Sunak’s administration. By advocating for a free-market, low-tax economy and promising to “rewire, reboot, and reprogram” the British government, the 44-year-old former software engineer positions herself as a disruptor. She has campaigned for less immigration and criticized multiculturalism, just like her opponent Jenrick, but she hasn’t called on Britain to withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights.
Badenoch is an outspoken opponent of wokeness who opposes gender-neutral restrooms, identity politics, and government initiatives to lower carbon emissions in the UK. She faced backlash during the leadership race for claiming that “not all cultures are equally valid” and for implying that maternity pay was exorbitant.
T&T – Dr. Wayne Frederick Gives $1M to School System
Dr. Wayne Frederick, a former president of Howard University, gave $1 million to the Ministry of Education’s Adopt a School initiative during a ministry event on October 29, 2024. Frederick and Jacqueline Charles, the acting permanent secretary, signed a contract in the presence of Education Minister Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly. In his speech, Frederick, who overcame sickle cell anemia to pursue a career in surgery and later as a university administrator, expressed his gratitude to Trinidad and Tobago’s public healthcare and education systems, both of which were instrumental in helping him achieve his objectives. He expressed thanks by remarking, “This is simply a down payment,” acknowledging that he would never be able to pay back the obligation he owed this society.
He said that T&T’s public education system influenced him after he completed his O’levels at the age of 14 and his A’levels at the age of 16, earning two degrees by the time he was 22. He also remembered his childhood six months of sickle cell therapy.
He stated, “I feel very, very strongly about the youth of this country.”
With reference to his recent visits to various
schools in T&T, he stated that he has “absolute faith” in young people and encouraged everyone to foster the humanity of the youth by educating them. He said that it was not only the responsibility of the government and corporations to help craft solutions that would benefit the nation’s youths but also everyone. He claimed that his grandmother had given him confidence when he was a child and that it was now extremely important to instill confidence in young people.
He remarked, “In this society, I intend to be a significant catalyst.”
In her speech, Gadsby-Dolly claimed that the Adopt a School initiative assisted in planning how to “pour” into the lives of the students.
As was the case with gifts to Howard and his alma institution, St. Mary’s College, Frederick stated during the question period that the gift was made in the names of his two children, Wayne Frederick III and Kirie. He wished for his kids to carry on his charitable work in the future.
Reporters were informed by the ministry The donor was free to choose how to use Frederick’s contribution, which was intended for school infrastructure.
“He has been looking at some projects, based on the information we have collected.”
According to her, the government had first requested a list of requirements from many school principals.
“He has made a couple of site visits to schools. Dr Frederick and Mrs Frederick will make their decision very soon and when they make that decision. We will proceed.”
Gadsby-Dolly encouraged everyone to volunteer to mentor local children.
“They may be academically successful but there are other things. There is a lot of mental health pressure and strain, so it is incumbent upon each of us to reach out to young people.”
Two years ago, the government started a volunteer mentorship program, she added.
“We can always use more mentors.”
She said mentors should show consistency in visiting schools to dole out good advice to students.
Gadsby-Dolly said that schools have submitted hundreds of proposals to the government
when asked if there was a list of initiatives that philanthropists like Frederick might fund. She noted, “So we have a lot of information from our schools so that any corporate sponsor donor that is willing to donate to a school can get in touch with Adopt a School, our coordinator and they can provide data.”
She added, “In terms of geography which
schools in what area, because sometimes we are asked for a particular area (and) we can provide it by that filter.
Concerning the inclusion of extracurricular activities she stated, “We can also provide by the different types of activity – whether it is a sporting field, a pan theatre or music room or musical equipment.”
Antigua/Barbuda - Member of Parliament Found Dead
ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) — Police are at the home of an independent legislator, Asot Michael, who was reportedly found dead in a pool of blood at his house in St John’s, Antigua on Tuesday morning.
Police have made no statement regarding the discovery of the body of the Member of Parliament for St Peter, but
his death has sent shockwaves across the nation, with several people gathered outside his Dry Hill residence on the outskirts of the capital. Michael was born in the French island of Guadeloupe on December 21, 1969, and had served as a minister in a previous administration of Prime Minister Gaston Browne.
He contested the last general election in January 2023 as an independent candidate after he left the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP).
Guyana – Ahead of Region in Economic Growth – IMF
The IMF predicts that despite the positive sparks generated by Guyana and Suriname’s petroleum endeavors, the region as a whole experienced favorable economic growth. This is coming up to the end of a year in which Guyana’s long-confirmed significant oil resources and unmistakable signs that neighboring Suriname is aggressively knocking on the door of the global petroleum club. The major oil discovery made by Suriname earlier this year saw the nation join Guyana as another potentially internationally significant “kid” on the oil and gas “block,” which is still being hailed in the area as one of the few “good news” stories from the Caribbean’s economic front.
Out of 35 Latin American and Caribbean nations, Barbados ranks 11th best in the chart that lays out the Fund’s projections for economic development in the area this year.
Additionally, according to reports, the Fund predicts that the nation’s growth will slow to three percent in 2025. Unsurprisingly, Guyana has the highest anticipated growth rate (43.8%) among 10 Latin American and Caribbean nations.
Additional nations listed in the growth rate lineup are the Dominican Republic (5.1 percent), Belize (5.4 percent), Aruba (5.5 percent), and Antigua & Barbuda (5.8 percent). Costa Rica (four percent), Nicaragua (four percent), Dominica (4.6 percent), St.
Vincent and the Grenadines (4.5 percent), and St. Kitts and Nevis (4.4 percent). Apart from that, the Fund predicts that 2025 will be a year of hemisphere-wide economic decline.
IMF Chief Economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas has stated publicly that global economic growth “is projected to hold steady at 3.2 percent in 2024 and 2025,” although he notes that “some low-income and developing economies have seen sizable downside growth revisions, often tied to intensifying conflicts.” This statement coincides with the release of recent data on the economic performance of countries in the region.
UK – Shakyrah Davis of Antigua & Barbuda is Miss Caribbean UK 2024
Shakyrah Davis, a tourist marketing expert from Antigua and Barbuda ancestry, topped four other delegates from Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Jamaica to win the Miss Caribbean UK contest on November 2 at the Shaw Theatre in London. Davis “is passionate about promoting Caribbean culture and youth development,” according to the Miss Caribbean UK contest. Her passion for music and the performing arts has given her more self-assurance and motivated her to motivate Caribbean youth.
Aruba, Miss first runner-up was Carla Mark-Thompson, while the second runner-up was Miss Jamaica Layia Johnson.
The win of Davis is being celebrated by the High Commission of Antigua and Barbuda in London. The High Commission stated in a statement on Facebook, “Congratulations, Shakyrah Davis! We are beyond proud to celebrate Shakyrah Davis, who represented Antigua and Barbuda with distinction at the Miss Caribbean UK Pageant! Shakyrah’s incredible talent and dedication led her to victory as the Overall Winner, triumphing in segments, including Evening Wear, Popular Vote, and Charity Fundraiser,” the High Commission said in a Facebook post. She added, “Your achievements have made Antigua and Barbuda shine on the international stage, and your community celebrates you as an inspiring ambassador! Here’s to a future filled with even more success and impact. Congratulations, Shakyrah — you are truly a queen!”
Moving Forward with Purpose and Resilience
In a historic campaign that resonated across the American landscape, Vice President Kamala Harris’s bid for the presidency captured hearts, ambitions, and the hopes of millions who envisioned a different future. Yet, as the election concludes and Harris’s path to the White House appears closed, this outcome, though disappointing, should serve as a call to action rather than a defeat.
From the beginning, Harris’s campaign promised a renewed sense of possibility. She built her vision on progress, resilience, and equity, striving to amplify voices too often sidelined in our nation’s narrative. Her presence on that stage, as the first Black woman and South Asian to hold the
office of Vice President, brought with it an immense historical weight and an aspiration for all Americans, particularly young Black girls and women who saw their own strength reflected in her trailblazing role. While we may be saddened, we are not beaten. Harris’s candidacy represented the hard-won strides of generations past, each step forward a reflection of sacrifice and hope. She did not campaign alone; she carried with her a coalition—Black communities, immigrants, women, working-class citizens, and allies of all backgrounds—who saw in her the dream of a more inclusive America. It is in honor of these ancestors, of the struggles that have defined our history, that we must carry on,
resolute and undeterred. Let us remember the powerful journey that brought us here. Our ancestors fought fiercely for justice, civil rights, and equality—many risking their lives for the rights we hold today. They, too, faced setbacks, even heartache, yet their faith in a brighter future carried them forward. In honoring them, we find our own strength to continue, to build upon their vision, and to advance their cause. It is this resilience, this steadfast commitment, that must guide us now.
As we stand at this juncture, let us channel our energy into the work that remains. The fight for freedom and equality is neither confined to the outcome of one election
nor bound by the term of any one leader. It is a continuous journey, and each of us must play our part. Harris’s campaign, her history, and her vision have planted seeds of hope across the nation, and it is up to us to nurture them, to push forward, to ensure that progress does not stall. Looking ahead, we must do more than simply hope for a better tomorrow; we must build it. We must take this moment as a renewed call to civic action, to community engagement, and to lifting each other up. The light of progress remains unextinguished.
Celebrating 46 Years of Dominican Independence: Resilience and Progress
We join in congratulating Dominica on its 46th year of independence, a milestone that reflects the remarkable resilience, unity, and aspiration of its people. As a nation known for its vibrant natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Dominica’s journey to independence and its strides toward prosperity reveal a story as majestic as its lush landscapes. This Independence Day, we take a moment to honor the island’s remarkable past, celebrate its present leadership, and look forward to a promising future underpinned by the determination and warmth of the Dominican people.
Dominica’s path to independence was shaped by a series of significant historical developments. Known as the “Nature Isle of the Caribbean,” Dominica was first inhabited by the Kalinago people long before European explorers arrived. Colonization brought complex cultural changes, with the French and British both claiming control at various points. Finally ceded to Britain in 1763, Dominica spent much of its colonial history as part of the British Empire, governed by external rule.
The mid-20th century marked a period of increasing national consciousness across the Caribbean. Dominica, like its regional neighbors, was spurred by a desire for self-determination. Movements advocating autonomy and identity led the island to join the short-lived West Indies Federation from 1958 to 1962. By the 1970s, the vision for an independent Dominica was clear. On November 3, 1978, the people of Dominica witnessed the fruition of years of ambition and struggle as the island declared indepen-
dence from Britain, marking the beginning of a new chapter as a sovereign nation.
Today, Dominica is led by Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, who has held office since 2004, making him one of the longest-serving leaders in the Caribbean. Prime Minister Skerrit’s leadership has been marked by a commitment to resilience, particularly in the face of natural disasters that have challenged Dominica’s infrastructure and economy. Under his guidance, the country has embarked on ambitious plans to become the world’s first climate-resilient nation, a mission propelled by Dominica’s vulnerability to hurricanes and the increasing impact of climate change on small island nations.
Prime Minister Skerrit’s administration has also emphasized sustainable development. From enhancing healthcare and education to promoting ecotourism and renewable energy, his vision is a forward-looking one aimed at ensuring the well-being of all Dominicans. These efforts reflect a broader regional awareness of the importance of resilience and sustainability in the Caribbean, as island nations work together to build a stronger, more integrated future.
One of the key policies of his government has been the Climate Resilience Execution Agency for Dominica (CREAD), established in response to the devastation of Hurricane Maria in 2017. This initiative underscores Dominica’s commitment to adapting to and mitigating the effects of climate change. CREAD aims to foster a resilient society by investing in infrastructure, housing, and sustainable agriculture. These developments align with Dominica’s broader goal of
becoming a blueprint for climate resilience worldwide—an objective that not only highlights the country’s dedication to its own future but also its role as a model for other nations facing similar challenges. While government initiatives are critical, it is the spirit of the Dominican people that drives these efforts. Known for their hospitality, resilience, and pride in their heritage, Dominicans have cultivated a unique identity, balancing tradition with progress. Despite the many challenges they have faced—particularly from natural disasters—the people of Dominica have continually demonstrated an unwavering resolve to rebuild, grow, and thrive. From the bustling capital of Roseau to the serene Kalinago Territory, communities across the island exhibit a strong sense of togetherness and determination.
Dominica’s rich cultural fabric includes traditional Creole customs, a language that blends African, French, and indigenous influences, and the island’s iconic music, from cadences to modern bouyon. Celebrations such as the annual World Creole Music Festival and the Independence Day festivities are vibrant expressions of Dominican heritage and unity. These gatherings not only showcase local art, music, and cuisine but also reaffirm the island’s identity and its people’s pride in their roots.
Dominicans are also celebrated for their dedication to environmental conservation, ensuring that the island’s natural beauty is preserved for future generations. Known for its eco-conscious tourism, Dominica attracts visitors seeking an authentic experience, where they can explore the island’s rainfor-
ests, waterfalls, and geothermal hot springs, all cherished and protected by local communities. Dominica’s deep connection to nature is both a source of pride and a reminder of the environmental challenges that face the country.
As Dominica celebrates 46 years of independence, the future holds promising opportunities. The government’s investments in renewable energy, particularly geothermal energy, are positioning Dominica as a leader in sustainable practices. This progress is expected to reduce energy costs, lessen reliance on imported fuel, and create new employment opportunities in green industries. Additionally, Dominica’s strategic emphasis on education and healthcare ensures that future generations will be equipped to navigate and contribute to the island’s evolving economy. The coming years will be crucial for Dominica as it continues its mission to become climate-resilient while embracing the technological and economic advancements that come with modernization. By nurturing innovation while preserving cultural heritage, Dominica can continue to build a prosperous future that benefits all Dominicans. This Independence Day, we honor not only Dominica’s leaders and achievements but also the resilience and vitality of its people. The journey from colonial rule to a thriving democracy is a testament to the strength of the Dominican spirit. As Dominica strides confidently into the future, the world watches with admiration, inspired by the island’s courage, unity, and unwavering commitment to progress.
Happy Independence, Dominica!
DOJ Targets Elder Fraud and Nursing Home Abuse in Sweeping Nationwide Actions
by Stacy M. Brown, NNPA
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has released its annual report to Congress on efforts to combat elder fraud, abuse, and neglect. The report details over 300 enforcement actions against more than 700 defendants accused of targeting older adults. The department recovered nearly $700 million, disrupted major transnational schemes, and prosecuted cases involving substandard care at nursing homes and serious rights violations in veterans’ facilities.
One high-profile case included the convictions of two Pittsburgh-area nursing homes, Brighton Rehabilitation and Wellness Center and Mount Lebanon Rehabilitation and Wellness Center. A federal jury found both facilities guilty of falsifying records submitted to the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to avoid penalties for inadequate care. Evidence presented at trial revealed that both facilities manipulated staffing records to appear compliant with Medicare and Medicaid standards. Sentencing is scheduled for December following a comprehensive investigation by the FBI, Health and Human Services, IRS, and the
Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office.
In its report, the DOJ noted an investigation into New Jersey Veterans Memorial Homes at Menlo Park and Paramus found conditions that violated residents’ constitutional rights under the 14th Amendment. According to DOJ findings, inadequate infection control and medical care at these facilities exposed veterans to life-threatening conditions. The report noted that poor management compounded these deficiencies, contributing to high death rates among residents.
The DOJ’s report highlighted a broad initiative against elder fraud schemes affecting over 225,000 seniors. Fraud cases ranged from romance scams to government impersonation schemes, with DOJ efforts stopping $27 million in fraudulent transfers before they reached perpetrators. With assistance from financial institutions, the DOJ returned millions of dollars to victims and provided resources through its National Elder Fraud Hotline, which handled more than 50,000 calls from older adults seeking support and guidance.
Beyond prosecution, the DOJ emphasized
prevention and awareness, hosting nearly 1,000 elder justice events, including the first Elder Justice Law Enforcement Summit. The summit gathered law enforcement from all 50 states to share best practices in addressing elder abuse and fraud. Public campaigns also raised awareness of common scams, providing seniors with valuable tools to protect themselves from fraud.
“By working together with federal, Tribal, state, and local law enforcement, we can make meaningful progress toward curbing and preventing elder abuse,” Attorney General Merrick Garland stated. “Because millions of older Americans suffer some form of elder mistreatment each year—and because many more abuses go unreported or unseen—everyone has a role to play in this work.”
The report additionally covered DOJ’s enforcement of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Four Texas counties agreed to improve the accessibility of their election websites, addressing barriers faced by older adults with disabilities. Officials said the commitment to accessibility was part of the DOJ’s broader mission to ensure that elderly
Americans can fully participate in their communities.
“The Office for Victims of Crime recently funded the first National Center for State and Tribal Elder Justice Coalitions, promoting statewide coordination to address and prevent elder abuse more effectively,” Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Benjamin Mizer remarked.
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco added, “Given the financial, emotional, and physical toll suffered by older victims regardless of how they are victimized, the Department aggressively pursues all forms of fraud and abuse wherever they may arise.”
Before Biden Leaves Office, Here’s What He Can Do For The Environment
Now in its final months, the Biden administration has a chance to cement its powerful legacy on the environment. Congress returns for its so-called lame duck session on Nov. 12. The administration should pull out all the stops to work with Congress and use the powers of the presidency to get some more big things done.
First, the administration must continue its historic work to address the climate crisis and further push the United States economy away from the burning of fossil fuels. The Inflation Reduction Act, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the other major policy initiatives championed by this administration are some of the most effective tools we have ever had to combat climate change, create good American jobs, and ensure the U.S. leads in the next economy. The investments in clean energy and manufacturing must continue.
But while that happens, we also need to stop bad policies that threaten reckless fossil fuel expansion, the opposite of the direction in which we need to move. There are two critical actions the federal government can take right now to combat fossil fuel-driven climate change. One is stopping the build-out of massive liquefied natural gas export terminals like the proposed CP2 facility in Louisiana. Approving more fracked gas infrastructure will only lock us into a fossil fuel future neither country or the world can afford. Increasing fracked gas extraction and pro-
by Ben Jealous
cessing for export is a bad choice all around. We do not need to burn more fossil fuels for energy. Virtually every step of the cycle from extraction to export is fraught with risks to public health. From fracking and the pipelines used to transport the gas, to the liquefaction process and the harm to ecosystems from the new terminals and tanker traffic, it all creates dangerous pollution. And it is a raw deal for American consumers as well. According to an analysis by Public Citizen, domestic consumers could face $14.3 billion in higher annual energy costs due to liquefied natural gas exports. The Biden administration should reject its expansion and stop the CP2 project.
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The other lame duck session action the administration should take against fossil fuel expansion is working to defeat the bad permitting bill by Sen. Joe Manchin, I-W.Va., and Sen. John Barrasso, R-Wyo. The Energy Permitting Reform Act of 2024 would gut bedrock environmental laws, endanger public health, open up federal lands and waters to further oil and gas leasing, and fast-track the review of proposed liquefied natural gas export projects. It would be another big step in the wrong direction.
Public lands, old-growth forests
The second area in which the Biden administration needs to continue its historic lead-
ership is in the protection of public lands. The administration’s America the Beautiful initiative aims to protect and preserve at least 30% of our lands and waters by 2030. Biden can go out with a bang by using the Antiquities Act to create several more national monuments.
The administration protected over 12.5 million acres of public lands just in 2023 alone. Now Biden has a chance to create a national monument at Sáttítla, or Medicine Lake Highlands, in Northern California. The monument would protect over 206,000 acres of land that hosts unique ecosystems and has deep cultural importance to Indigenous tribes in the area. He should also create the Chuckwalla National Monument, to protect roughly 660,000 acres of the California desert south of Joshua Tree National Park. And, at long last, the president should designate the site of Black Wall Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma as a national monument to recognize the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921, one of our country’s most horrific and largest incidents of racial violence.
When it comes to enjoying the outdoors, Black and low-income families get left out From planting trees to cruising in an EV, combating climate change is an American duty
The other action the administration should take to protect lands is to finalize protections, under the U.S. Forest Service, for America’s remaining mature and old growth forests. Mature trees are especially effective
at removing carbon from the air and are one of Earth’s most important natural defenses against the climate crisis.
Lastly, the Biden administration should work with Congress to expand access to the outdoors for all Americans, by doing what it takes to pass the EXPLORE Act and sign it into law. The bipartisan bill is a wide-ranging package of policies including the Outdoors for All Act and expansion of the Every Kid Outdoors program to make national parks and public lands accessible to more of America’s youth. The EXPLORE Act would help close the nature equity gap and help kids, families, veterans, and millions of others enjoy the gifts of nature.
This president deserves our gratitude for how he has prioritized the climate, fighting pollution, and land conservation. Biden now has a little under three months to keep doing big things.
Ben Jealous is executive director of the Sierra Club and a professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania.
Dominica - Former Prime Minister OJ Seraphin Shares Thoughts on the Nation and Electoral Reform
In celebrating the 46th anniversary of our independence, I am privileged to be one of the founding fathers, having actively participated alongside Patrick John, Victor Rivierre, and Leo Austin in announcing to Her Majesty’s Government our intent to seek independence from Britain. By the grace of God, I remain the last surviving cabinet member of the government that led us to independence, and I wish to remind the nation of the contributions made by those men and women who laid the foundation of our nationhood. May the Lord guide and bless all the leaders and people of our land.
Indeed, as we prepare for our 50th anniversary, it is imperative that we revisit the process of our constitution and respond to the clarion call for change, acknowledging the need for an upgrade. I contributed to the leadership of our nation following the revolution of May 1979 and served as a former leader of our country. I made my contributions and subsequently called for proposals for electoral reform. All Dominicans should awaken to the need for constitutional change, reflecting our responsibility as caretakers for the future of Dominica. Many have asked me about my stance on reform, and I would like to present my contributions to electoral reform.
Cabinet Secretary Prime Minister’s Office Roseau, Dominica
Madam,
Please accept my contribution as stipulated and requested by recent advisories from the Government of Dominica.
It is my responsibility to add my voice to the ongoing consultation on electoral reform as one of the living founding fathers of our nation. I was also the president of the ruling party and a minister of the government that sought and achieved our independence from Great Britain, which led to the establishment of our new constitution on November 3, 1978. Let my contribution not be regarded as an attack on anyone, as was the case with my earlier contribution on dual citizenship and the constitutional prerequisites regarding candidates for election. As a consultant, I advised a prominent client who sought representation for Dominica and the region but whose intent proved spurious. I aimed to assist both political parties in Dominica in achieving an equal playing field and campaign reform, proposing a budget of $400,000 for respective
parties’ campaign finance in the imminent 2019 election. This amount is far less than what current discussions involving Byron and others speculate regarding equitable campaign finance reform. Indeed, in the absence of campaign reform, the process remains tilted in favor of one party over another.
The final voice on the matter of our national direction must allow other eminent voices—local, regional, and international—to be heard, as Byron acknowledged in his report. The observers present at these discussions, as eminent authorities, should be allowed to offer their guidance. Their findings and advice should be made available to the public, as transparency is a core value of our democracy.
DIASPORA AND OVERSEAS VOTES
The role of the large population of emerging alien CBI citizens and long-estranged Dominicans, who can compete with indigenous Dominicans at home, requires attention. This situation underscores the need for registration of all citizens only in Dominica, with residency requirements of no more than five years. Consequently, the answer lies in the direction of residence set by the original intent of our constitution, which I understand was our intention. It was also our intention to have people registered in a constituency to vote in their constituency of residence. This demonstrates the rationale that one must prove residency as a condition of the right to vote. Voter ID is recommended.
I continue to believe that the focus on overseas voters may have overshadowed the reality that this focus may not be necessary. People who live here should determine the government that responds to their needs in this country, where they face its challenges and benefits.
The Byron report should be viewed through the lens of what already exists effectively and seamlessly in St. Kitts and other OECS states. We have established an economic union, free movement of people, and the pursuit of integration as outlined in the Treaty of Basseterre. Why, then, is there not a commonality of OECS electoral practices as guidelines and guardrails to protect our democracy, including voter ID cards? I believe that the Commonwealth right to vote, as defined in our constitution, is colonialist in intent and now irrelevant to our Republic; this right should be granted directly to OECS citizens. The unity of the region to speak with one voice was prompted by the earlier One Caribbean-St. Georges Declaration, agreed upon by Prime Ministers Maurice Bishop, Allan Louisy of St. Lucia, and myself in 1979-1980. This effort partly motivated the St. Kitts Basseterre OECS Declaration in 1981. The St. Georges Declaration—One Caribbean—was a principle of political integration.
Why are the positive aspects of other OECS states, such as the economic union and free movement of our people, not included and used as a guide for electoral reforms?
Electoral reform is a cause that could also serve discussions on our constitutional reform. Byron may have been less forceful in this regard, but we led the OECS with our Republican constitution of 1978. We are
squandering the opportunity to revisit our Republic’s constitution with the fervor of this electoral reform consultation, as suggestions for improvement are intertwined. We should seek adjustments and meaningful changes to our constitution to reflect present-day advocacy. The Telford Georges report of 1999 and the short-lived initiative of Dr. NJO Liverpool deserve attention. This moment, if lost, will not easily be regained. NOW IS THE TIME.
Clearly, what demands our attention beyond Byron is the relevance of constitutional change regarding the role of our President. We agree that the current system reflects the inadequacy of that office’s influence, highlighting the urgency for constitutional change to establish a national election for that office. A constitutional change through a referendum may be imperative. The presence of a two-thirds majority of the current government in the House of Assembly has the authority to initiate this process. What are we waiting for in the context of modernization?
Indeed, Byron spoke of the evolution of the Electoral Commission, yet there has been insufficient attention to the role of the Chairman and the legitimacy of the commission’s members. The need for increased numbers seems lacking in response to recommendations. Allowing at least three non-affiliated political representatives from the Bar, private sector, and religious communities would be ideal as a bulwark for our election and democratic process. There is no doubt that the Electoral Commission has failed to fulfill its basic responsibility of cleaning the voters’ list of those who have passed away. This does not require consultation or input from a consultant; it can be done independently.
The Byron report failed to adequately address the existence of 21 constituencies, which far surpasses that of our OECS associate member states, creating an anomaly where this country has more chiefs than Indians. We may recall that it was Patrick John, as Premier in 1974, who added ten more constituencies to the existing eleven, with a possible population then of 80,000. Now, we are in the region of 72,000 or less with 21 representatives. In contrast, St. Lucia, with a much larger population of 180,000, has 17 constituencies; Antigua, with a larger population of 93,000, also has 17 parliamentary representatives; Grenada, with a population of over 124,000, has 15 representatives; and St. Vincent, with a population of 104,000, has 15 constituencies. We must adjust our representation, given that we have the smallest population in the larger OECS community, and face our economic and political reality. It is unrealistic to sustain such an overabundance of representation, as demonstrated by the low population numbers in constituencies such as Colihaut and Valley. If we don’t address this now, then when? This can be remedied immediately by determining a number more representative of our geographical population breakdown, by simply calling on the Boundaries Commission to draw a new map of constituencies numbering no less than 11 or no more than 15. This will better serve the needs of an impoverished nation and make the number of Ministers and
Ministries more realistic within our budgetary capacities, as was the case in past administrations where six or seven Ministers were the norm and were responsible and effective. Now, all parliamentary representatives seem to seek the sole purpose of becoming Ministers of Government. Gerrymandering remains a challenge for which a political balance must be sought. Proposals to form a committee from the wider community and the emergence of an Electoral Commission and Boundaries Commission with adequate financial resources may be necessary for political stability.
While local government may not have been a focus of the Byron report, it was once the grassroots foundation of our democracy and the empowerment of local leadership, which Dominica led in the region during the leadership of E.O. LeBlanc and beyond. The rules that apply to national voting should also apply to local government. Local representatives have been overshadowed by the dominance of Parliamentary representatives from central government. There is a need to reestablish a more focused local government with the resources and independence to act, which is imperative for the democratic redistribution of resources to a wider nonpartisan community.
The roles and imperatives for campaign financing are universal, and there is a clear need for clarity in setting financial campaign boundaries for respective political parties and campaign finance interventions and support. There is also a need for access to public radio and equal terms for private radio. Campaign finance reform is necessary and requires specific guidelines.
The Byron report should not be treated as a mandate without examination or held solely as a sacrosanct document against which all contributions must be weighed. There are many other opinions of equal value from experts, sages, and our citizens who contributed. This exercise has opened Pandora’s box regarding the limitations of our Constitution and must be refocused on electoral and campaign finance reform. A CNS-style national leadership to formulate and process through an advisory committee to the Electoral Commission and Central Government arising from this consultation may serve a useful purpose in allowing all ideas to contend.
We are at a pivotal phase in our history. Let wisdom, not haste, prevail as we seek to reconstruct our democratic process for a new generation. This may be this generation’s one opportunity to effect change, notwithstanding the singular focus evident in consultations about overseas voters and electioneering. I may be one crying out in the wilderness and perhaps outside the vision of this consultation. My contribution may have little influence or value, but as leaders depart, I believe future generations who inherit the decisions we make will judge us based on our responses to the constitutional and reform challenges of today. May we invite the Holy Spirit to guide us. (Dominica News Online)
Dominica Independence Day 2024: Eighteen to Receive Service Awards
As Dominica celebrated its 46th Independence Anniversary on November 3, the nation honored eighteen outstanding individuals whose dedication and achievements have left a lasting impact on their country.
Leading this year’s awardees was Olympic Gold Medallist
Thea Lafond-Gadson, who received Dominica’s highest award, the Dominica Award of Honour, in recognition of her historic triumph at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Lafond-Gadson’s flawless performance in the women’s triple jump earned Dominica its first-ever Olympic medal and first gold, igniting national pride.
Several others were awarded the prestigious Sisserou Award of Honour, Dominica’s second-highest national accolade. Among them were Dr. Cyril Robinson, a dedicated dentist, the governments of the United Kingdom and Canada, and Range Developments for their invaluable contributions to Dominica.
The Meritorious Service Awards recognized exceptional contributions across various fields, including business, education, culture, and community development.
Honorees included Cheryl Rolle for Business and Insurance, Simeon Albert for Community Development, Nigel Francis for Education and Culture, Gerald Corbette for Education, Armour Thomas, and Annette Bates for Community Development, Martin Charles for Diplomacy and Sports, Carol Severin-Abraham for Agriculture, Hudson Challenger for Education, and Catherine Janice Leighton-Armah for Diplomacy.
In addition to these, the Long Service Medals honored Courtney Challenger for Public Service and Adelina Destouche for Education, while the Services Medal of Honour for Sports was awarded to Isaac Andre. The awards were presented by Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, President of the Commonwealth of Dominica, at the official Independence Day ceremony at Windsor Park Sports Stadium in Roseau. This celebration not only marked the nation’s independence but also paid tribute to the exceptional men and women whose efforts continue to shape Dominica’s bright future.
Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival Ends on High Note
by Mell P
Have you ever been to a festival where the music, lights, and energy all come together in pure magic? That’s exactly what went down at Dominica’s 2024 World Creole Music Festival, October 25 through 27!
The three-day celebration ended on a high note, with Signal Band’s electrifying finale that left the crowd breathless, their phone lights flashing like stars against the night sky, Dominican flags waving, and the Windsor Park Sports Stadium vibrating with the powerful rhythms of Creole music.
The festival drew thousands over its three nights, bringing together friends, family,
and music lovers decked out in vibrant outfits to celebrate this 45th annual edition. Among the many unforgettable moments was Day 2’s standout performance by Wizkid, the only African artist at the event. Fans were buzzing, saying he brought unmatched energy that had everyone grooving to his beats.
And the final night? Pure magic. Gramps Morgan, the reggae sensation, created an unforgettable “Gramps Morgan Experience” alongside musical guests like Duane Stephenson, Luciano, and his talented sons. Together, they filled the stadium with soulful reggae that had the crowd swaying
and singing along, especially during his new single “Have a Light” and his moving tribute to his late brother, Peter Morgan, and the legacy of Morgan Heritage. As Gramps closed his set with “People Like You,” the stadium lit up with thousands of phone lights, creating a magical sea of light.
Dominican leaders, Miss Dominica 2024 Kyanna Dyer, and cultural icons all came out to celebrate, with Kyanna even dressed in vibrant national colors. She joined the crowd, soaking up the spirit of the festival and calling on everyone to keep the energy alive for Carnival 2025.
The lineup was nothing short of spectacular: Nadia Batson, Rotimi, Triple Kay Band, Bouyon Boss, Carlyn XP, Skinny Fabulous, and so many more brought the fire, staying true to the festival’s tagline, “Three Nights of Pulsating Rhythms.” Gramps Morgan’s emotional, world-class performance was the festival’s crowning moment, filling Windsor Park with an unforgettable energy that carried on into the early hours, capping off Dominica’s Independence celebrations with joy, pride, and a promise of more vibrant celebrations to come.
Senator Parker Speaks at 2024 Solar & Storage Finance Summit
Brooklyn, NY – In his capacity as chairman of the Senate sub-committee on Energy & Telecommunications, State Senator Kevin Parker partnered for an event with The Solar & Storage Finance Summit 12th edition. The event, held on Madison Ave in Manhattan, New York, aims to connect the decision makers in solar and storage projects and provide
opportunities for networking.
While speaking on the panel discussing what lies ahead in 2025 for solar and storage financing, Senator Parker said: “As a leader in clean energy development and the most audacious climate goals, New York has set a standard to move into a clean energy economy with policies, programs, and dollars that keep us moving toward a more efficient future.
As solar energy continues to be the fastest-growing renewable source in the United States, projections indicate that solar projects will exceed 38% growth in the coming years. Additionally, U.S. battery storage capacity is expected to double by the end of 2024, with asset owners increasingly utilizing energy arbitrage strategies. The Solar and Storage Finance Summit is a key event for industry leaders, providing a platform for decision-makers to drive forward solar and storage initiatives across the country while facilitating crucial deal-making and learning opportunities
Grenada – Men Flogged by Court Want Compensation
An attorney in Grenada, who successfully filed a constitutional motion calling for the High Court to declare flogging a criminal offense, now wants it to recommend less EC$50,000 in compensation to men who have been flogged in the past.
“I am satisfied that the High Court has put an end to that form of punishment, but I am not happy with the amount awarded for damages, it is too low, I think it should start at EC$50,000 and not EC$15,000,” said attorney Jerry Edwin.
He said he would also be filing a claim on the State to award men and boys who have been flogged at the instructions of a
magistrate in the past.
Edwin said he will be seeking more financial compensation from the State because the men, in whose names the complaint has been filed, received the punishment from a judicial officer of the State who should have known better.
“That punishment according to the law should have been delayed for at least 14 days before it was executed. The men who were flogged should have used those 14 days to appeal the sentence and the judicial officer who instructed the punishment is an officer of the State who should have known better...
St. Vincent - Civil Servant Can Run For Office
On Tuesday, St. Vincent’s Prime Minister, Ralph Gonsalves, announced that his government will implement new legislation that will permit teachers and specific categories of public servants to run for political office without having to resign.
Gonsalves said The government has been putting in place a slew of legislation to modernise St. Vincent’s economy and make it more competitive, Gonsalves said. “We are implementing an amendment to the Representation of the People Act to allow teachers and specific categories of public servants to run for office without the need for resignation or leave.”
”You’ve been asking for that. That’s fine with me. I don’t have any worries about this; in fact, I think it’s a beneficial step. Some say it should have happened before, but everything is happening in good time, as the evangelicals said, day by day. Sweet Jesus”.
On Tuesday, Gonsalves also stated that the government is going to amend the Town and Country Planning Act, given all the changes taking place in the construction sector and in the organization of our physical resources.
Bahamas - Legislator Acquitted of Rape and Assault
Kirk Cornish, the Member of Parliament for the constituency of North Abaco in the Bahamas, has been acquitted of rape and assault charges, calling it the close of one of the most “difficult chapters” of his life.
After deliberating for under two hours, a nine-member jury, consisting of eight women and one man, unanimously found Cornish not guilty of two counts of rape and one count of assault.
They returned a 6-3 not guilty verdict on two additional charges of assault and threats of death.
Justice Renae McKay, who presided over the three-week trial, thanked the jury for their service and acquitted Cornish on all charges.
This was the second jury to hear evidence in the matter after the first jury was dismissed in May after one member was
reported to have a connection with the Leader of the Opposition.
Following the verdict, Cornish issued a press statement, thanking his legal team and expressing relief at the outcome, while also renewing his commitment to the people of North Abaco and acknowledging their steadfast support.
“Today, I am blessed to turn the page on what has been the most difficult chapter of
my life,” he said. “To the people of North Abaco, I want you to know how deeply I appreciate your support. Your faith in me, even through these challenges, has been a profound source of strength, and I am truly humbled by the belief you’ve shown.” (CMC)
CARIBHEALTH
World Health Summit, Berlin - CARPHA Champions Trust and Regional Collaboration
Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago - On Sunday, October 13, 2024, Dr. Lisa Indar, Ad Interim Executive Director of the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and Project Director of the Pandemic Fund Project in the Caribbean, participated in a panel discussion at the World Health Summit on “Building Trust for Better Decision Making in Health Emergencies’, with representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) in the Eastern Mediterranean, Europe and the WHO Health Emergencies Programme; the Africa and European Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and the German Federal Ministry of Health.
Dr. Indar, spoke to the critical need for trust, regional collaboration, and tailored approaches to enhance health emergency responses in the Caribbean region. She shared CARPHA’s approach to public health, underscoring the importance of addressing the Caribbean’s unique context and fostering collaboration among diverse member states. She reflected, “For us, the biggest aspect of building trust is dialogue with relevant stakeholders on their specific needs and developing Caribbean-specific interventions. One shoe doesn’t fit all in the Caribbean; you have to look at what the specific needs of the region are and you also have to understand that an outbreak in one country or one member State means an outbreak in the Caribbean because of the interconnectedness. Getting our countries to trust us using the science and ..(handle) regional coordination and collabora-
tion has been huge for us.”
CARPHA, as the regional public health agency serving 26 Member States in the Caribbean, addresses public health from a global and regional health security perspective, given the region’s high interconnectivity and tourism dependency. The Pandemic Fund Project, executed by CARPHA in the Caribbean, exemplifies the agency’s commitment to public health in the Region. As the first multilateral financing mechanism dedicated to health preparedness and pandemic prevention and response, the Pandemic Fund provides multiyear grants to strengthen the capacity of low and middle-income countries, helping them prepare for future pandemics through sustained resources and support. CARPHA is leveraging this initiative to create customised, country-specific interventions that build resilience across the Caribbean region.
During the summit, Dr. Indar also met with global health leaders, including Mandy Cohen, Director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO). These discussions highlighted CARPHA’s role in international health security and reinforced the agency’s commitment to collaborative efforts for enhanced preparedness and response.
St. John’s Episcopal Hospital RN Supports Far Rockaway Families On and Off the Clock
Far Rockaway, NY – Beverley Childs, RN, is known for the compassionate and dedicated care she provides to patients at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital. A mother of four, Childs has been with the hospital for seven years, first in Pediatrics, then working as a float nurse, before finding her calling in Labor and Delivery. Now, as a passionate supporter of the St. John’s ICARE Foundation, Childs is giving back to the community she has tirelessly served. Inspired by Jacqueline Marecheau, MD, FACOG, Chair of the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Episcopal Health Services (EHS), and Renee Hastick-Motes, President of St. John’s ICARE Foundation and Senior Vice President, Chief External Affairs Officer of EHS, she donates her time and treasure to provide vital support to families on the Rockaway peninsula.
“Beverley is a true example of how one person can make a difference,” said Hastick-Motes.
“Her dedication to the foundation and commitment to the community is truly inspiring.”
As part of the foundation’s Mother/Baby initiative, Childs assembles baby bags filled with essential items for new mothers, along with the foundation’s auxiliary members, to ensure every family feels cared for beyond their hospital stay. She also helps prepare Teen Self Care Bags, and provides financial support to
the foundation.
“Beverley is a beautiful human being inside and out, and her support of the foundation has been heartwarming,” said Nancy Leghart, Executive Director of the St. John’s ICARE Foundation. “She shows up on her days off and volunteers her time for our teen and mother initiatives, she supports our events, and is always willing to lend a hand when needed. Her commitment to the foundation and the community is unmatched.”
Childs shared that she’s always believed in volunteering.
“It’s humbling to be part of something bigger than yourself,” she said. “What I love about the St. John’s ICARE Foundation is their commitment to the health and well-being of our community. Their focus on essential services aligns with my own values, and it’s inspiring to see their impact, from mothers down to children.”
As for working in Labor and Delivery, Childs admits she was initially nervous and unsure of what to expect. She wondered how she would handle emergencies and care for women who hadn’t seen a doctor throughout their pregnancy. Ultimately, she overcame her fear and said, “it’s become second nature.”
“We see a lot of women who haven’t had prenatal care, and I want them to know that we’re here to help. If something feels wrong, don’t be afraid to come in. There are resources available,” Childs said.
Childs’ own personal experience of becoming pregnant at age 19, shaped her approach to patient care.
“I was scared and felt like I was received in a way that wasn’t nice. I felt judged, and I carry that with me,” she said. “When people come into Labor and Delivery, I greet them and make sure they feel safe. I always tell them, ‘I’m glad you came in.’ Especially with teenagers, I show compassion and ask if they’re safe and getting prenatal care. They may be young, but they’re still having a baby... Continued online
Vybz Kartel Proposes to Long-Time Girlfriend
Vybz Kartel shared an Instagram video of the proposal to girlfriend SIidem, where he surprised her in a hotel room.
He shared his joy with the proposal with his fans on Instagram, flashing the engagement ring to the camera.
He captioned the heartfelt announcement:
“It’s official… I proposed in prison, but I proposed in real life.”
He further paid tribute to Sidem as he said: “You were there when I needed you
most, and I’ll never leave you, baby. I cherish every visit, every phone call, and all the moments we spent talking, laughing, and even crying together.
“You’ve been my rock, my best friend, and my companion. I pray we stay together for as long as I live. I love you, baby.”
Vybz Kartel and Sidem Öztürk first met in 2015, and have been long-distance for nine years, due to the dancehall singer being in jail in Jamaica.
Kartel was released from prison in July after his murder conviction was overturned, and the pair have since launched their own YouTube channel which offers fans a closer glimpse at their relationship.
The 48-year-old was originally given a life sentence in 2014 for the killing of his associate Clive ‘Lizard’ Williams in Jamaica. The artist released numerous songs and projects whilst in prison, many of which have been critically acclaimed.
Marcia Griffiths Celebrating 60 Years in Show Business
On November 3, 2024, Tony Gregory, a singer, songwriter, and composer, will play at the much-awaited Marcia Griffiths & Friends performance at Hope Gardens in Kingston.
Gregory began working in the music business at the age of ten, and after over 70 years, he speaks with wisdom and profound understanding about his experience.
The integrity and maintenance of Griffiths’ professional ties throughout the years are what give the Marcia Griffiths & Friends show its relevance and grandeur. He revealed that one of Griffiths’s first hits was a 1964 collaborative single, “You’re Mine/Oh Baby,” which they will play during the next performance.
Gregory stated, “The new generation listens to the music completely differently, and that is why I take my hat off to Marcia. Her music has expanded all over these years and it’s melodic and it’s interesting to find that the new generation is also getting into her music.”
The performer expressed his excitement at being a part of Marcia Griffiths’ 60th anniversary event, stating that she is from the school of artists who are not pre-occupied with accolades.
“In our time, money wasn’t the front thing, where I’ve found that to be the case now. We performed because we loved what we
Soca Star Machel Montano Gets MA in Carnival Studies
by Mell P
Have you heard? Soca superstar Machel Montano, the Caribbean artist who took Soca global, just graduated with a Master’s Degree in Carnival Studies! After years of electrifying fans with his music, Montano returned to the classroom to earn a postgraduate degree from the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT). The Carnival Studies program, which UTT has offered for over a decade, dives into the roots of the carnival phenomenon, its cultural significance, and the business side of carnival events and festivities.
Montano took a brief break from the carnival scene recently, but he’s already announced his return for Trinidad’s legendary Carnival 2025. In a promotional video this week, he teased fans with plans for “Monday Madness” on February 24, 2025, promising an unforgettable Soca experience he’s calling “Soca Insanity.”
To celebrate Montano’s achievement, UTT released its own video of him receiving his
diploma, and in true Soca spirit, Montano sent out cheers of congratulations and encouraged others to follow in his footsteps. UTT’s Carnival Studies program offers a unique path for students to explore arts entrepreneurship, event management, cultural research, and carnival arts, attracting students with dreams of becoming leaders in the global carnival scene. UTT proudly offers the world’s only BA in Carnival Studies, allowing students to experience hands-on engagement with cultural enterprises and explore diverse disciplines like communication, visual arts, tourism, and more.
As Montano gears up for the 2025 Carnival and celebrates his academic journey, he’s living proof that learning never stops and that the world of carnival is just as rich in study as it is in spirit.
were doing. Sometimes we didn’t even get paid but we loved what we were doing,” he noted.
Griffiths’ remarkable career is praised by Gregory. Gregory pointed out, “She has actually done it all. It’s very difficult for females in this business; it was a manoriented business. There aren’t too many females that came through this. She is looked upon and respected all around the world for what she believes in and what she portrays, that’s so important.”
The multi-talented musician, who has lived in Europe for a considerable amount of time, claimed that his first hits in
Jamaica were “Baby Come On,” “You’re Mine with Marcia,” and “Only a Fool Breaks His Own Heart.” He has since enjoyed success in Europe and said that he now places a high value on living in the parish where he was born.
“I’m trying to enjoy life a little bit. I live on the north coast in St Ann. I come out when I need it. I get offers but I’m not really taking them. I’ve been through a lot and I know it’s good for some people but I just want to enjoy. I’ve seen so many people in the business who are gone and they didn’t enjoy their life. They enjoyed being onstage but that’s it. They’re not around
Caribbean Region Represented at Latin America’s Largest Tourism Fair
BUENOS AIRES – The Caribbean made a significant impact at the 2024 International Tourism Fair (FIT) in Argentina, creating a strong presence among recordbreaking crowds. Held from September 28, 2024, to October 1, 2024, at La Rural Convention Center, FIT attracted over 135,000 visitors, an eight percent increase compared to last year.
EM Marketing, an allied member of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), was pivotal in coordinating the Caribbean’s participation in this growing Latin American travel event.
“This year’s success at FIT demonstrates the Caribbean’s increasing appeal in Latin America,” said Elsa Petersen, Founder and CEO of EM Marketing. “The growing interest from both travelers and industry professionals confirms the region’s unique value proposition. This event allowed us to showcase the Caribbean’s cultural richness and scenic beauty as well as establish new partnerships and strengthen confidence in the region as a leading destination for international tourism.”
Key achievements at FIT 2024 include:
- 6,114 business appointments, a 39% increase from 2023
- 7,445 meetings facilitated via the FIT B2B system - Over 30 meetings coordinated by EM - Marketing with operators from Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Ecuador, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru
“The vibrant Latin American travel market represents a strategic partnership opportunity for Caribbean tourism,” said Dona Regis-Prosper, CTO’s Secretary-General and CEO. “Through our ongoing collaboration with Latin American tourism stakeholders, we’re committed to fostering meaningful connections that enhance travel experiences. As we support the growth of this market, we’re excited to work alongside our partners to create sustainable tourism opportunities that benefit both regions.”
With over 34 million travelers originating from Latin America annually, FIT has established itself as the region’s premier tourism exhibition and is poised to set new records at its next edition. CTO and its allied partners view this premier industry event as crucial for elevating the Caribbean’s brand within the Latin American market.
Sunrise Airways Expands Its Footprint with New Routes to Eastern Caribbean
Sunrise Airways expands its Eastern Caribbean network in late 2024, adding new routes to Grenada, St. Vincent, Tortola, and Guadeloupe, boosting regional connectivity.
Sunrise Airways continues its commitment to enhancing connectivity in the Caribbean through its One Caribbean initiative, aimed at linking island nations across the West Indies. Starting in late October 2024, the airline will expand its operations in the Eastern Caribbean, launching its first-ever flights to Grenada, St. Vincent, and Tortola. Additionally, new connections to and from Guadeloupe will be introduced.
This expansion follows Sunrise Airways’ earlier announcement in May 2024 regarding the launch of its first intra-regional flights within the Eastern Caribbean. The Fall 2024 route expansion will be rolled out in three phases:
Phase I: October 27, 2024
Sunrise Airways will begin flights to Grenada and St. Vincent, alongside new routes to Guadeloupe, all starting on October 27.
Flights to Grenada will operate three times weekly, while Guadeloupe and St. Vincent will be serviced four days a week. All these flights will depart from Antigua, offering onward connections to Dominica, St. Kitts, and St. Lucia.
Phase II: December 2, 2024
On December 2, Sunrise Airways will inaugurate its first-ever service to Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, with twice-weekly flights from Antigua. These flights will also provide nonstop connections between Tortola and Santo Domingo, with additional connections available for travelers from Dominica and St. Kitts.
Phase III: December 4, 2024
On December 4, the airline will introduce a new route connecting Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic to Pointe-à-Pitre in Guadeloupe, with twice-weekly nonstop service.
This expansion reflects Sunrise Airways’ ongoing efforts to strengthen regional connectivity across the Caribbean.
CARIBLEGAL
NYS – AG James Put in Place Hotline for Election Protection
The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) will begin offering its Election Protection Hotline on November 2, 2024, for the general election scheduled for November 5, 2024, as well as during New York’s early voting period, which is scheduled from Saturday, October 26 to Sunday, November 3. This announcement was made by New York Attorney General Leticia James. According to James, the hotline will be readily accessible to troubleshoot and
resolve various issues that voters may encounter, such as problems with voting in person at their polling station, by absentee ballot, or by early mail ballot. Addition ally, a frequently asked questions guide is available to help voters with issues related to voter registration and the absentee and early mail ballot process.
Attorney General James remarked, “All New Yorkers have the right to feel safe when casting their votes.” She added,
“Our Election Protection Hotline will help ensure that every voice is heard – whether you’re voting by mail, early, or in-person on Election Day.”
Attorney General James noted her office’s dedication towards voters’ confidentiality and safety through upholding the integrity of this year’s election, “My office is committed to protecting free and fair elections and we will continue to do everything in our power to ensure a safe, smooth voting process for all.”
She continued, “I urge every New Yorker to contact our hotline to resolve election-related questions or concerns.”
State and federal laws, according to James, protect New Yorkers against voting intimidation, deceit, suppression, and obstruction.
If voters are having trouble casting their ballots, she advised them to contact the OAG hotline at (866) 390-2992 or file a complaint online.
The phone hotline will be available from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5, and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during early voting, which runs from Saturday, Oct. 26 through Sunday, Nov. 3. Additionally, from 9 a.m. to 6 a.m. on Monday, November 4, and Wednesday, November 6, the hotline will be open the day before and following Election Day. According to James, the online complaint form may be used at any moment to send textual requests for assistance. OAG
lawyers and staff answer hotline calls and handle written requests for help.
According to James, the OAG has been running its Election Protection Hotline since November 2012. According to her, OAG handled hundreds, sometimes thousands, of complaints from voters around the state during past elections and collaborated with local election authorities and other stakeholders to resolve problems.
In addition, OAG has filed lawsuits to prevent purges of voter registration and to guarantee that voters have fair and sufficient access to early voting as mandated by law.
All eligible voters are entitled to free and fair elections, according to James. On election day, polling places must be open from 6 to 9 a.m., and voters must be permitted to cast ballots if they are in line before closure.
She said that everyone who is registered to vote has the right to do so without being forced or intimidated to do so by election authorities or anybody else.
Election complaints pertaining to any of the laws the OAG enforces, such as the New York Voting Rights Act, will be received by the OAG and addressed, according to James.
Voters who are having trouble can contact (866) 390-2992, get help online, or go to the Frequently Asked Questions.
New York’s Jaywalking Law Finally Lets Locals Walk Free
by Mell P
Have you ever jaywalked? Me too—it’s been a habit for years! Honestly, I never even knew it was illegal until recently. I mean, it’s New York City, right? Jaywalking feels like part of the local DNA. But here’s the newsflash: for the first time since 1958, crossing the street whenever and however you want is now perfectly legal in the Big Apple. Last week, the change took effect when Mayor Adams let a new city council bill decriminalizing jaywalking slide into law without a veto or signature.
According to CNN’s Julianna Bragg, this shift is seen as a win for racial justice, with one of the bill’s main advocates, Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, pointing out that jaywalking enforcement has often unfairly targeted communities of color. StreetsblogNYC reported that in 2023 alone, a staggering 92 percent of jaywalking tickets were issued to Black and Latino New Yorkers, with fines reaching up to $250.
But not everyone was thrilled about the new law. City officials and the police
voiced concerns this summer, arguing that ticketing jaywalking helps reduce traffic fatalities. The statistics are sobering: over the last five years, 200 pedestrians lost their lives crossing streets outside of crosswalks or against signals, making up about 34 percent of all pedestrian fatalities. Still, there’s a broader history to consider. As traffic historian Peter Norton explains, “jaywalking” wasn’t always a crime. It was, in fact, a 100-year-old strategy pushed by the car industry to clear the roads for vehicles and shift responsibility to pedestrians. Traffic experts like Angie Schmitt and Charles T. Brown argue that it’s long overdue to rethink this mindset and hold reckless drivers accountable. With this new law, New York joins a growing list of cities and states like California, Virginia, Nevada, Denver, and Kansas City, Missouri, in decriminalizing jaywalking. It’s a step toward safer, fairer streets and, finally, a little legal leeway for New Yorkers’ natural urge to jaywalk!
Dominican Thea La Fond-Gadson to Receive Excellence in Sports Award from CARAH
The Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS) is pleased to announce that Thea La Fond Gadson, winner of the first Olympic Gold Medal for Dominica will receive the Excellence in Sports Award at the upcoming 31st Annual Caribbean American Heritage (CARAH) Awards Gala.
This prestigious event, themed “A Celebration of Excellence and Service” is scheduled for Friday, November 15th, 2024, at the JW Marriott in Washington, DC. The occasion is dedicated to recognizing the exceptional achievements and groundbreaking contributions of Caribbean American leaders across various sectors, including Health Care, Entrepreneurship, Public Service and Community Service, who have become beacons of inspiration for current and future generations.
Thea LaFond Gadson is a Dominican Born,
Maryland raised Olympic Champion. After migrating to the United States with her family at the age of 5, she fell in love with dance. 8 years later, her friends talked her into joining the John F. Kennedy High School track team under head coach Kevin Monroe. It was in high school that Thea first began to compete for her home country of Dominica at the youth level.
She is a 4x Carifta Games medalist in the high and triple jump. She also is a 9x Maryland State Champion, holding titles in the 100 hurdles, 55 meter hurdles, long jump, high jump, and triple jump. Due to her success she amassed a crate full of scholarship offers and letters from universities. Eventually, she settled on the University of Maryland (UMD) with a full ride offer under head coach Andrew Valmon and jumps coach Frank Costello.
She enrolled in the fall of 2011 and graduated in 2015 with a bachelors in International Studies with a minor in Public Health. At UMD she became a standout in the multi events, high jump, hurdles, long jump, and triple jump. Thea became 6x All American, 1x conference Athlete of the Year. 4x conference champion, 2x conference record holder, and a 4x school record holder.
After graduation, she met Aaron Gadson(coach and husband) who led her to numerous medals (2x Commonwealth games, 1x Pan American games, 1x North American and Central American and Caribbean Champion) including Dominica’s first Commonwealth games medal. In 2024 he led her to Dominica’s first World Indoor Title (15.01m). Soon after the 2024 World Indoors Championships in March, Thea learned she had a serious knee injury and was
advised to either shut down her Olympic plans or push through the injury. She decided to push through in hopes of keeping her Olympic dreams alive. Three months later Thea would
win Gold at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games to bring home Dominica’s first Olympic medal in a new personal best and a Dominican National Record (15.02m).
