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Volume 8 Issue 6
JUNE 2015 Since AUGUST 2008
ARIBBEAN
COMMUNITY • CULTURE • CONNECTIONS
It’s Carnival Time
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One Love Caribbean
Page 2 • ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN • JUNE 2015
The Publisher’s Thoughts
A TRIBUTE TO THE INDIGENOUS PEOPLE OF THE CARIBBEAN A Focus on Our Genesis They were never credited with any contribution to the history of the Caribbean. Our studied history highlighted them as a menagerie of wild people. Quite a superficial image of our indigenous people! This month, I want to bring them to forefront as we reflect on our Caribbean heritage. Who are we? What is our real heritage? As with past years, June is Caribbean American Heritage Month, a month when we should not only celebrate our contribution to the United States, but should also include the contribution of our indigenous people of the Caribbean. Our heritage begins with our history. It didn’t happen by chance; however, knowing and understanding who we are is the mechanism to propel us into the future. But there was a problem in the educational system, the source of our history. The writers of Caribbean history were Europeans and a few Americans. And yes, it was written from their perspective. It was probably one of the biggest fights among us as Caribbeaner in the 1940s to 1970s. As the educated class returned to their island home, they began to poke fun and vocalize the idiocies in the educational system. A prime example of its time was the Mighty Sparrow winning rendition “Dan Is the Man in the Van” in the 1963 calypso competition. According to the education you get when you small You will grow up with true ambition and respect from one and all. But in my days in school, they teach me like a fool The things they teach me, I should be a block-headed mule. The poems and the lessons they write and send from England Impress me. They were trying to cultivate comedians. Comic books made more sense; you know it’s fictitious, without pretense. Cutteridge wanted to keep us in ignorance. Sparrow made a mockery of the infamous West Indian Reader, a series of reading textbooks used throughout the British Caribbean for more than fifty years. He felt the book promoted “chupidness” in the primary schools. So when it came to our heritage, instead of teaching matters of substance, they promoted that the indigenous people were extinct. Moreover, they were savages, they were uncivilized, and they were cannibals. What a bunch of crock? The powers of Europe were on a one way “mamaguy” street. Don’t let them fool you? But a lot has changed since 1960s. However, at the time, little accurate information was known about our native people other than the “chupidness” in European/American written history books. Today, through the work of a range of historians, archaeologists, and
ethnologists, we are slowly debunking the myths and the ethnic distinction of our Caribbean heritage. It has been a long time coming. Here are some of the myths that have been debunked: 1. They named them “Carib” a derivative of cannibalism. I am sure that you were taught from the history books that the Caribbean natives were the Caribs and Arawaks. Research tells us differently. The Arawak called themselves Tainos; they settled primarily in the Great Antilles. Likewise, the Caribs called themselves Kalinagos, and lived in the Lesser Antillean chain of islands. The Garifuna people are the descendants of Kalinago and African slaves. “Carib was a name used by Europeans to describe those people who inhabited the islands of the Lesser Antilles at the time of Columbus’ second voyage in 1493. This was not what the people called themselves. The repeated use of the name for over five centuries however, has made it widely adopted even by the descendants of the people themselves. The French missionary Raymond Breton, visiting Dominica in 1642, recorded that the “Caribs’” name for themselves was Callinago in the “men’s language” and Calliponam in the “women’s language”, while Callínemeti was “a good peaceful man.” (Honychurch L, 1995) 2. They called them savages. Of course, the history books tells us that the Taino People (Arawaks), the descendants of the first Native Americans who greeted Christopher Columbus in 1492, were peaceful people and the Kalinago were warlike people. And that is true. So, let’s analyze it. Imagine you were one the Kalinago and seeing a big sail vessel approaching your island. You had never seen one of this magnitude. What would you do? Can you feel the fear? At this point, it’s all about defense! Defense! It was the order of the day. Taking a defensive position should not be confused with savagery. Worse yet, the Tainos, who welcomed the greater numbers of Europeans with flowers and tobacco, were later annihilated, to a great extent. They were placed in slavery by their powerful raiders killing most. But the warring Kalinago fought the invaders with the all their might. The Europeans were forced to develop treaties with Kalinagos and Garifunas communities and to return some stolen properties. To this end, some natives were exiled to Central America. In 1993, archaeologist Irving Rouse (1913-2006) offered a gleaned of the Tainos people from his fifty-year career studying them. In his book, The Tainos: Rise and Decline of the People Who Greeted Columbus he wrote that in 1492, the Tainos had a robust civilization stretching from all but the westernmost part
of Cuba through Hispaniola and Puerto Rico to the Virgin Islands and beyond, and stretching north into the Bahamian archipelago. It was long thought that they had been part of the series of successive migrations into the West Indies from South America. Rouse asserts that had the Tainos continued to develop undisturbed by the Spanish, they likely would have created a lavish civilization on par with the Maya, Aztec, and Inca of Middle and South America. The central Tainos of Hispaniola and Puerto Rico constructed courts for ceremonial ball playing and dancing. They also had a complicated matriarchal social structure of villages and chiefs and practiced agriculture and trade. 3. They told us that were cannibals. Researchers have concluded that there is no proof cannibalism took place within the Kalinago and Garifuna communities. It is believed that the Europeans may have embellished their stories in order to rationalize the killing and enslavement of Caribs. The word Cannibal is thought to be a derivative of the Carib name. It is important to realize that this may just have been propaganda. Further, Raymond Breton who lived among the Caribs have rejected the cannibalism label and stressed other features of Carib life. Stories of cannibalistic reports were accompanied by stories of one-eyed and dog-faced people. There are no confirmed reports of any dogfaced or one-eyed men found in the Lesser Antilles. Why then should any cannibals have been found? (Myers, 1984) 4. They assure us that the natives were annihilated. That notion is false. Descendants of Kalinagos still live and thrive in the islands of Dominica, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent. There are also the Garifuna in Central and South America who are the direct descendants of the Vincentian Kalinago people; they were exiled to the island or Roatan (of Honduras) by the British Government. This was done in order to neutralize their war efforts against the British. But this was a big surprise to me. Do you remember? It was wildly accepted (somehow) that the Europeans killed the native people of the Caribbean. It was also accepted that the invaders married Taino women or had Taino concubines. Most Puerto Ricans know, or think they know, their ethnic and racial history: a blending of Taino (Indian), Spanish and African. Students of the islands’ past have read the same account for over 300 years; that the Native people, and their societies, were killed off by the Spanish invaders by the 1600s. “Mainly we are Spanish, we are told, with a little African blood and far-away Taino ancestry.” (Kearns Rick, 2003, www.indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com) However, Dr. Juan Martinez Cruzado, a geneticist from the University of Puerto Rico in Mayaguez who designed an
Sylvanus Donaie, island-wide DNA survey shows differently. According to the study funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation, 61 percent of all Puerto Ricans have Amerindian mitochondrial DNA, 27 percent have African and 12 percent Caucasian. (Kearns Rick, 2003, www. indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com) Dr. Martinez concluded that folks in the Dominican Republic and Cuba by large are of native inheritance. So, here is the actions that the Caribbean governments are taking on the journey back to honor our native Caribbean people. In February, the Government of Dominica decided to formally set aside the name “Carib” and legally return to Kalinago, their original names for Dominica’s indigenous people. It shows a sense of mature understanding of the history of our region on the planet. St. Vincent is actively revitalizing the Garifuna culture to the point whereby Vincentians are now singing their National Anthem is the language of the Garifuna. Many Taino organizations have appeared in recent years in Puerto Rico, Cuba and the Dominican Republic. In Trinidad and Tobago, the indigenous people celebrate their annual Festival of Santa Rosa. St. Vincent and the Grenadines host an annual International Garifuna Summit and Conference. National Delegations from Nicaragua, Honduras, Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala and USA attend to focus on the Garifuna Heritage and Culture on the islands. As we celebrated Caribbean American Heritage Month, let refocus on our strength, roots, ethnicity, and culture. It’s who we are! So until then, One Love! Sylvanus Donaie, BA, BSEE, MTM, MPM, MBA Of course, I love when you disagree with me, and I want to hear from you. If you disagree, please let me know. You can always email me at sdonaie@olchouston.com.
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
JUNE 2015
Walk for Breast Cancer
Haitian Marie Germain Crowned Ms. Houston Caribbean Queen By Sylvanus Donaie Staff Writer The 2nd year of Ms Houston Caribbean Queen Pageant was held on May 22, 2015 at the Bayou City Center in Houston. This year’s pageant drew a cross section of over 300 members of the Houston Caribbean community in attendance. The title of Ms. Houston Caribbean Queen 2015 was won by the charismatic, Marie Alexandra Germain. Ms. Germain who represented the island of Haiti wowed the crowd with her dance routine, her national dress (which she designed and created) and her intelligent and forthright response to the question posed to her by the host of the pageant. She is the second young lady to be crowned with the prestigious title since the competition started in 2014. Ms. Germain is a recent graduate of Prairie View A&M with a Bachelors Degree in Psychology, and she plans on pursuing a second Bachelors Degree in Nursing. First runner-up was Chelsea Caicedo representing Panama. She is a 19 years old, born in Houston Texas to a family of
By Sylvanus Donaie Staff Writer
L-R: 1st runner-up, Chelsea Caicedo, Ms. Houston Caribbean Queen, Marie Germain, 2nd runner-up, Jonel Robins. Panamanians. Jonel Robins was second runner-up, a 22 years old representing the beautiful Nature Island of Dominica. The show began with the contestants dressed as flight attendants performing a dance routine reflecting the theme of this year’s pageant, Fly with Houston Caribbean Airline. The contestants vying for the title of Miss Houston Caribbean Queen had to compete in five categories: talent, swimwear, national dress, eveningwear, and confidently respond to a question from one of the show’s hosts. The pageant was hosted by DJ Docta and Yahai-
ra Jollie Kirkland.
It was a cultural, educational, and festive event that sought to celebrate the talent and intellectual abilities of young women of Caribbean heritage. This year, the Houston Caribbean Queen Pageant featured contestants representing the islands of Haiti, Dominica, Panama, Belize, and Jamaica. Of course, the architects of the venture were two great Dominicans, Kelly St. Rose and Shamah Lloyd. Even with their busy schedule attending school, they directed a second Houston Caribbean Queen Pageant to huge success. Kudos.
The Association of Jamaican Nurses Celebrated their 25th anniversary
OLC: The Association of Jamaican Nurses celebrated their 25th anniversary on March 28, 2015 with a grand gala at the Hilton Houston Southwest Hotel. It was the ultimate place to see many of our medical professionals in one place other than the workplace.
In the fall of 1988, the vision was conceptualized at a welcome reception hosted for four nurses who were recruited from Jamaica to work at MD Anderson. The initially consensus was to form a mentorship group for new nurses. However, it was quickly realized that this was an opportunity for Jamaican nurses to come together in order to embrace their heritage, mentor, network and provide assistance to the Jamaican community. Hence out of the reception hosted by Mrs. Desrene Harvey, in the spring of 1989, the Association of Jamaican Nurses of Greater Houston was established.
Dr. Hyacinth Gordon, Guest Speaker, Sonya McGarth, VP of AJN, Laurel Westearth, President of AJN
The guest speaker for the evening was Dr. Hyacinth Gordon, Director Clinical Nursing at MD Anderson Cancer Center, encouraged the attendees to take personal responsibility and be willing to make changes. Dr. Gordon explained that the life changes may be intense and profoundly scary. One has to decide and make it happen, or pushed until the change comes. Ending her speech, she quoted President Barack Obama. “Change will not come
if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.” The President of the Association, Ms. Laurel Westearth, reminded attendees that Association of Jamaican Nurses is a testament of how the vision, determination and commitment of a few can catapult to the achievement and accomplishment of several goals in the Houston community.
The Caribbean Breast Cancer Foundation (CBCF) held its second annual Breast Cancer Walk-a-Thon and Health Fair on Saturday May 2, 2015 at Buffalo Run Park in Missouri City. More than 200 women and men participated.
among American women, and the most commonly diagnosed cancer among African American women. The risks generally increase with age. Almost 8 of every 10 new breast cancer cases and almost 9 of every 10 breast cancer deaths are in women 50 years old and older.
Participants were excited to be walking for such a deserving cause. The event was a Caribbean Style Walk with Caribbean music, food and line dancing. There were also a variety of art and craft vendors and health professionals, as well as a Zumba dance fitness class.
Representatives from MD Anderson Cancer Center attended to distribute information on breast and prostate cancer and serve as a cancer resource to attendees. The Philippine Nurses Association members were on site to do blood pressure and glucose screening.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, after skin cancer. It accounts for nearly 1 in 3 cancers diagnosed in women. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer
In addition to the growth in attendance, the walk has grown from a regular to a wellness activity, said Dr. Paula Abraham, founder of CBCF and a breast cancer survivor. She explained that regular aerobic exercise Continue on Page 14
JUNE 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
Carnival 2015: Ready for the Road
Houston is a fast growing Caribbean melting pot, and every year around America’s Independence Day celebration, Houston comes alive with Caribbeaners celebrating with an explosion of color, music, revelry, and masquerade. It is the annual Houston Caribbean Festival (HCF) and the date is fast approaching. For the past thirteen years HCF has been one of the premier Caribbean festivals in the United States, and attracts thousands of visitors from across the Globe. It’s a week of non-stop activities and events which boils to a fever pitch on July 5, 2015. Carnival is wild and wotless to the point where you maybe be considered a vagabond. Simply put, it is a time when revelers have a hell of a time not caring what anyone says or thinks of them. But it is also a time where masqueraders wearing skimpy costumes of feathers and sequins can be seen dancing, wining, gyrating and chippin to the booming music of the latest soca across Tom Bass Park in Houston. Summing it all up, carnival is not for the faint-hearted. The carnival season began at a Band Launch on May 16, 2015. At this event, the masquerade bands, who are slated to participate in the parade, display and model their theme costumes. This year’s bands for 2015 Carnival include People’Z Choice, Houston Madd Colors, Trendsetters Mas Camp, De Addiction Mas, Adrenaline Mas Band, JamRock, and Bad Habits. But, one can plan to start the Carnival week by attending The Camo Fete on July 1 and The
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The E-Verification System So should you E-verify?
By Latania Mena Attorney at Law Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States. E-verify is an internet-based system that helps employers verify the work authorization of new hires.
Carnival season began at a Band Launch on May 16, 2015. OLC Photo Ultra Glow All White Affair on July 2, 2015. According to Patrick Lewis, the CEO of HCF, this year’s carnival is going to be big. The Ultra Glow White Affair (called Cloud 9 Addiction) will feature soca greats such as Lyrikal, Ravi B, Ricardo Drue, Rayzor & Leonce and the legendary Calypso Rose. On Friday, July 3, 2015 is Jouvert. Each year Carnival begins under a cloak of darkness. Fuelled by exhilaration and the energetic rhythms of soca music, revelers take to the streets for the predawn party of J’Ouvert. J’Ouvert (derived from the French ‘jour ouvert’ or ‘day open’) is almost ritualistic in its celebration of the darker elements of the island’s folklore and history. One can choose their own style of expression. One can bathe in chocolate, mud, oil and paint, or while others in a bands of revelers depict devils, demons, monsters and imps. Really and truly, J’Ouvert is a time
for the loosening of inhibitions. Carnival culminates on Sunday, July 5, 2015, with the Parade of Bands at Tom Bass Park in Houston. This event attracts thousands of attendees anxious to view this year’s costumes, and to see which band will win Band of the Year. The park will be teaming with food vendors anxious to quench the hunger and thirst of those who show up to have a good time. There will also be a variety of vendors selling ethnic and patriotic clothing, arts & crafts, and Caribbean music. In addition to the parade, there will be live entertainment with performances by local bands and international soca artists from the Caribbean. Patrick Lewis, the Brain behind the Houston Caribbean Festival said “I am proud to have been serving the Houston community for 13 years through the vehicle of Carnival, bringing a piece of the Caribbean to Houston. I am looking forward to a wonderful turnout again this year.”
It can be a useful tool for the Caribbean National, who wants to simplify the process of confirming work eligibility for its new employees. The program is administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in partnership with the Social Security Administration, and provides responses to most queries within 72 hours. The system works by allowing employers to compare information from an employee’s Form I-9 –Employment Eligibility Verification, to the vast records in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Social Security Administration databases. Typically, at the start of new employment, the employer and the newly hired employee should jointly complete the I-9 employment eligibility verification form. The form asks for employee’s name and date of birth; social security number; citizenship status; an alien number or I-94 number if applicable. Employee must produce documentation to establish work authorization. As a Caribbean business owner, you may choose from several documents to prove identity and authorization to work, such as a U.S. passport, a green card, an unexpired employment authorization card, or a combination of driver’s license
and social security card. The information from the I-9 Form is then entered into the E-verify system, where it is compared against records available in both departments’ databases. E-verify displays a photo of the employee for comparison with actual documents submitted to you for review. So should you E-verify? Enrollment is free and for most employers in Texas, voluntary. It takes most of the guess work out of maintaining a legal workforce, but it is not without its issues. The decision to enroll in E-verify should be carefully evaluated, as its impact on your business, depends on various factors such as industry, size, number of employer locations and the unique features of your business. Bear in mind that any incomplete results or mismatches with the system may be interpreted by the Department of Homeland Security as constructive knowledge on your part, that the employee lacks work authorization. You also want to make sure you have a mechanism in place for ensuring your employee records are complete and error-free. Enrolling in the program may Continue on Page 13
Golden Krust Issues Allergy Alert and Recalls Products Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill of Bronx, NY is recalling 6,188 cases of Shrimp and Soya Patties and approximately 9,073,384 pounds of beef and chicken products. The products are being recalled due to an undeclared egg allergen. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to eggs run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products. The cases of Shrimp and Soya Patties, Net Wt. 17.2 lbs are marked on the side with the following expiration dates: 1/24/2015 through 2/26/2016. Each bulk case contains 50 individual frozen pieces lined
with parchment paper. The beef and chicken products were produced on various dates from January 24, 2014 through February 26, 2015. Golden Krust has not received any reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider.
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
ARIBBEAN Briefs New Acting Governor General of St. Kitts and Nevis OLC: His Excellency S. W. Tapley Seaton Q.C. was sworn in as Acting Governor General of the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis. “I pledge that to the country of St. Kitts and Nevis which I hold dear,” Justice Marlene Carter administers oath to Acting he commended. “And GG Seaton in the presence of PM Harris certainly that will be my entire desire and all that I would strive 18. He was sworn in on January 2, 2013 to accomplish.” As the Queen’s represen- as the third Governor General of St. Kitts tative to St. Kitts and Nevis, the Acting and Nevis since becoming an indepenGovernor General has a responsibility to dent nation in 1983. Queen Elizabeth II as outlined in the oath. According to local media, WINN, the “We all have great expectations of him decision to withdraw the appointment of and of this office,” Prime Minister Dr. Lawrence came as no surprise. He had Timothy Harris said. “I have every con- been accused by the then opposition parfidence that he will perform to the de- ty, Team Unity, of adopting a partisan aplight and in accordance with the high proach to the then motion of no confidence expectations which every citizen ought issue by ignoring their letter to him. Now, to have of the office of the Governor Team Unity, is in the leadership, and asked General.” Buckingham Palace for his withdrawal. Seaton replaced Sir Edmund Lawrence, whose appointment was withdrawn by Buckingham Palace, dated Monday May
JUNE 2015
Iconic Saint Lucian, Sir Dunstan St. Omer Passed at 87 Iconic Saint Lucia artist and muralist, Sir Dunstan St. Omer (87) passed away peacefully on May 5, 2015. He was the designer of his country’s national flag.
In 2007 the Folk Research Centre declared him a National Cultural Hero. In 2009 he received an honorary Doctor of Letters degree from the University of the West Indies, and in 2010 he received the award of Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George (KCMG), conferred during the New Year Honors of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. While attending St. Mary’s College in Castries, he befriended Derek Walcott (1992 Nobel Prize in Literature) and Leo ‘Spa’ St Helene (renown St. Lucian photographer), who were to have a lasting influence on his life. The trio was introduced to National Cultural Hero Harold Simmons who had a profound impact their artistic capabilities. He went on to further his studies in Art and develop his craft, on a thirteen month scholarship to Puerto Rico. Upon his return to Saint Lucia, Sir Dunstan St.
Saint Lucia Icons, Dunstan St. Omer and Derek Walcott Omer worked with the Voice newspaper from 1959-1962 replacing his mentor and paper editor, Harry Simmons. The altars of Saint Lucian Churches islandwide are graced with Sir Dunstan’s notable murals which over the years have drawn acclamation and criticism for his depictions of black divinity. Sir Dunstan St. Omer was awarded a Papal Medal by the Catholic Church and the Saint Lucia Cross by the Saint Lucia Government on the occasion of the Saint Lucia’s 25th Anniversary of Independence in 2004.
ExxonMobil: Oil Discovery Offshore Guyana
After a decades-long search for oil in its offshores, Guyana has finally yielded success with Exxon Mobil Corporation reporting a “significant oil discovery.”
“I wish to record our gratitude to Sir Edmund and Lady Lawrence for their ser- In a press release, Exxon Mobil Corporavice,” Prime Minister Harris concluded. tion announced a significant oil discovery on the Stabroek Block, located approximately 120 miles offshore Guyana. The well was drilled by ExxonMobil affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd., and encountered more than 295 feet (90 meters) of high-quality oil-bearing sandstone reservoirs. It was safely drilled to 17,825 feet (5,433 meters) in 5,719 feet (1,743 meters) of water. Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometers).
First Lady Sandra Granger, President David Granger with his grand daughter, and Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo looking at the fireworks display during the formal inauguration ceremony
IMMIGRATION
“I am encouraged by the results of the
first well on the Stabroek Block,” said Stephen M. Greenlee, president of ExxonMobil Exploration Company. “Over the coming months we will work to determine the commercial viability of the discovered resource, as well as evaluate other resource potential on the block.”
T&T celebrated 170 years of East Indians Heritage
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OLC: Trinidad and Tobago celebrated the 170th anniversary of the first arrival of East Indians, who traveled thousands of miles from India to work as indentured laborers in the agricultural sect. In honor of the anniversary, the PM Kamla Persad Bissessar, herself of East Indian heritage attended Indian Arrival Day events at various venues around the islands: the Parvati GIrls High School in Debe, the NCIC Indian Arrival Day cel-
ebration at Divali Nagar in Chaguanas and Shaan in concert at Skinner Park. At each stop, the Prime Minister reinforced the lessons of her ancestors to put family first and to understand that education is an important means to achieve success. The first ship of Indian immigrants arrived Trinidad and Tobago on May 30, 1845 to work the dying agricultural Continue on Page 14
JUNE 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
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JUNE 2015
JUNE 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
PHOTOS
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T&T Association Mother Day Celebration
Around Houston Caribbean
L-R: Cheryl Dyer Moore (VP) and Dane McAlpin (President) The Trinidad & Tobago Association of Houston hosted their annual Monther’s Day event at the Hollywood Event Center on Sunday, May 11, 2015. The show hosted by Cleveland Harris and Celine Moore was well attended by supporters of the Association.
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
JUNE 2015
Miss Caribbean Houston Sunday June 28, 2015 Miss Caribbean Houston (MCH) intends to integrate the traditional aspects of Caribbean culture with a vibrant modernistic twist thus aptly coined Culturally Explosive. MCH kicks off on the 2015 Caribbean Festivities for the Houston Caribbean Festival (HCF) organization on Sunday June 28th. This show is intended to captivate a diverse audience of all ages both in and out of the Caribbean community. MCH primary purposes are to incite Caribbean patriotism and nostalgia and create inspiration to all youth. Tia Nelson Ms Antigua & Barbuda Like the black pineapple, beauty is in its uniqueness. So too this timeless Antiguan beauty Miss Tia Nelson! She currently holds an undergraduate degree in Customer Service and Sales from Abit in Antigua. It was Gandhi who said, “The best way to find yourself is in the service of others.” So beyond the exterior lies a heart of gold, with a love for service, and it is this love that has led her to dedicate herself to the cause of Breast Cancer Awareness. Leanne Morancie Ms Dominica Our life’s purpose is often rooted in the cultural identity we embrace and this gem from the Nature Island of the Caribbean is in constant pursuit of that
goal. Miss Leanne Morancie, affectionately known as ‘lutterfly’, hails from the cultural mecca of Dominica - the southern hamlet of Grand Bay. In true ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ fashion, Leanne continues to be inspired by a multitude of loved ones, a sometimes rare, but necessary fuel for impactful living. Leanne is a passionate preschool teacher. Bethy Pierre Ms Haiti Miss Bethy Pierre is a humble spirit born of strength, an expressive and creative soul, and a daughter de le Republique d’Haiti. La force est dans la lutte - the strength is in the struggle! She was the first in her family to not only graduate high school, but went on to complete undergrad studies in Public Relations. Later, she continued her studies with a graduate degree in Entrepreneurship at the University of Florida. Chantelle Clarke Ms Jamaica ‘We lickle but we tallawah’small in stature with a large personality proudly projecting her Jamaican spirit! Miss Chantelle Clarke was born in Brooklyn, but raised in the Little Retreat community in the heart of Kingston. She holds a Pharmacy Technician License and is currently studying at the Houston Community College in pursuit of a degree in pediatric nursing; a career path, she hope, will lead
to her contributing to the health and wellness of our youth. Teclesha Blanchard Ms St. Lucia Epitomizing the tenacious, resilient, and sophisticated vision associated with Caribbean women, Teclesha Blanchard is your 2015 Miss Saint Lucia. Teclesha hails from an opulent Saint Lucian heritage which has invigorated her passion for people, and culture. It is her belief that it is not only imperative but a responsibility that she be an active member in her community. In keeping with the desire to give back to society and humanity, she works as a case manager at IMPACT Early College High School in Baytown, Texas. A proud Cougar from the prestigious University of Houston, she obtained her Bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in Political Science and a minor in African American Studies. Oneka Byron Ms St. Vincent & The Grenadines “Be like a diamond precious and rare, not like a stone found everywhere- Unknown!” She is native of St. Vincent, the ‘Gem of the Antilles.’ Oneka Byron holds a bachelor’s degree in Art from the University of Houston Graduate. Aspiring to own her graphic studio, Oneka looks brazenly into the future with sureness of spirit in wanting to affect change in her homeland, and influencing greater introduction of the arts among the youth. Celine Moore Ms Trinidad & Tobago Neither the hummingbird nor the flower wonder about how beautiful they are! Miss Celine Moore is a direct descendant of parentage from the Land of the hummingbird. This Trinidadian beauty embodies brains, beauty and spirituality; trinity, a word after which the countries was named. She was born in the United States, but through parental guidance, she was taught from an early age to embrace the richness of the islands’ culture, heritage and diversity. A current senior of the James E. Taylor High school, Celine will soon progress onto continued education excellence, as she will begin her undergraduate career majoring in Education. Janae Pierre Ms U.S. Virgin Islands “Bright, vivacious and brimming with life just as the triple island paradise which she represents. Miss Janae Pierre com-
Tia Nelson Ms Antigua & Barbuda
Leanne Morancie Ms Dominica
Bethy Pierre Ms Haiti
Chantelle Clarke Ms Jamaica
Teclesha Blanchard Ms St. Lucia
Oneka Byron Ms St. Vincent & The Grenadines
Celine Moore Ms Trinidad & Tobago
Janae Pierre Ms U.S. Virgin Islands
pleted her undergraduate studies in Health and Kinesiology at Texas Southern University.
satile. Realizing at an early age that her witty and affectionate personality was inspirational to youth, Janae’s aim is to work and inspire troubled teens by helping to boost their self-confidence. She aspires to host a facility to accommodate these teenagers.
Vivian Greene once said “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” And, this Crucian is athletic and ver-
JUNE 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
BIRTHDAYS IN THE DIASPORA
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AN INSPIRATIONAL MOMENT Encouragement from the Word of God
In-laws or Outlaws? Garry Randolph St.Croix
Marsha Edwards Jamaica
Gail Longmore Jamaica
Naomi Nicholas Saint Lucia
Ms Donaie Saint Lucia
Daisy Romans. Jamaica
Linda St.Hill Barbados
Ashmead Ali Trinidad
Earlyn Carrera Trinidad
FireKyle Young Trinidad
Alexandra Hyacinth Saint Lucia
Harmando Savory Sr. Panama
Roselene Alexis Haiti
Kathleen T. Joseph Trinidad
Ann Wilkens-Haye USA
Jillian Raffington Jamaica
Judy Vialva St. Lucia
Gloria Romeo St. Croix
Email your birthday announcement to birthday@onelovehouston.com
Charmaine Bailey Staff Writer cbailey@olchouston.com During courtship and the “high” of being in love, couples often feel as if they are the only two people in the universe. However, in reality, there are a host of significant others who are around and will stay close for the entire journey of the marriage. These important people are in-laws, a crucial part of the reality of marriage. Society has conditioned us to believe that the in-law relationship is always negative and that it is impossible for mother-in-law and daughter-in-law to get along, so we enter into marriage perceiving new in-laws with suspicion, a critical attitude or treating them like outlaws rather than like family. In actuality, in-laws are a part of the “gift package”, provided as part of our family support network. They represent our spouses’ history and by understanding them we learn more about our spouses. They are your children’s grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins and potentially your friends. The Bible says you are to leave and cleave to your spouse; yes, you are still a couple in a relationship of two, but since you were not born in a vacuum, the people who nurtured or otherwise contributed to our lives while you were growing up still need to be regarded, like it or not. Even without living physically close to them, their influence from the past still exists and it’s your decision to let that be an asset or a problem. God does not make mistakes and this is all in keeping with His plan for our lives that in-laws be a blessing and not a “thorn in the flesh”. Which one it turns out to be mostly depends on how we decide to consider and treat them.
There are two biblical families – Ruth’s and Moses’ - that demonstrate the eternal value of in-law relations. After Ruth’s husband died her mother-in-law Naomi told her to go back home to her family since she, Naomi, had nothing to offer her. Ruth chose not only to stay with her, but also to embrace the very essence of her culture - her faith in God. This shows that Naomi was a good mother-in-law who treated her daughter-in-law well even though she was from a different religion, culture and background. Ruth eventually blessed her in so many ways - she became a daughter to her and helped to restore Naomi’s heritage including her “dead” family line. (Read the book of Ruth). Naomi received more than she gave because she chose to love her daughter-in-law and Ruth reaped eternal benefits because she chose to love and honor her mother-in-law. The patriarch Moses also had a special relationship with his father-in-law Jethro. He worked for his father-in-law for several years and after Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, Jethro took the time and journeyed to visit Moses. After observing Moses’ workload and the challenges that he faced as a leader, Jethro gave him some fatherly advice which Moses humbled himself and followed – principles which are still being practiced in business today. (Read Exodus 3, 4 and 18). We love our loved ones by loving the people that they love (our in-laws). In-laws have the responsibility of welcoming newlyweds into the family and treating them well, while respecting the boundaries of the couple’s relationship. It’s a two-way street and it takes intentional effort. If the situation is already bad, decide to start loving your in-laws as of now and think of ways to start showing it. Start praying for them - for a change of heart and mind and for turnaround, then trust God for the results. Conditions do not have to be perfect in order to have good relations. Let God condition our hearts and use us to be agents of “climate-control”, improvement and love. In-laws will no longer be outlaws but become “in-loves”. In loving memory of my “mother-in-love”, Kathleen Ethelridge Bailey, who loved me like her own daughter, and to all my “inloves” who became my own family. Charmaine Bailey is a speaker and a Christian Education Teacher. She studied Christian Education at Jamaica Theological Seminary and hold a BA Linguistics from the University of the West Indies.
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
OPEN EDITORIAL
United for Hope Foundation United for Hope foundation is a Texas registered nonprofit foundation founded in 2012,consisting of a group of medical and nonmedical professionals who are focused on making a difference to individuals and communities, especially focusing on the low income, no income and those living in struggling communities.
Goals Their goal is to continue serving communities through charitable aid and support, services and assistance. A voluntary health and missions organizations their mission out reaches are designed to impact, improve and help change the quality of life of the less fortunate.
Objective Dedicated to the social needs of the underserved, their objective is promoting health awareness and educational excellence through volunteerism of programs and services. United for Hope it’s soon becoming one of the fastest-growing voluntary mission services and student philanthropic resource organizations in the south.
Local Community Projects During that Yuletide and Easter seasons United for Hope volunteers actively donate and volunteer at local Houston homeless shelters, Fort Bend Women’s Shelter in Rosenberg and Star of Hope Mission downtown Houston, and Ronald McDonald’s House in Houston’s Medical Center(A boarding house for kids with disability and
JUNE 2015
Salute to a Living Legacy Joan Douglas
various illnesses). They partner with two local nonprofits “Jamaica foundation of Houston” and “Orphans Around the World” when they donated gifts and toys to kids in the local shelters.
Annual Committment Their annual commitments are there medical mission trips when they partner with Sentara Labs Virginia and travel to Developing nations such as Jamaica, working closely with the relevant health authorities out of makeshift day clinics erected on designated sites in remote areas. They volunteer at various community health centers conducting vision and dental clinics, health screenings, treatments and exams serving over 200 people daily. They donate medicines, eyeglasses, personal and medical supplies and school supplies and deliver health and nutrition counseling all at no cost. Upcoming Medical Mission The foundation is committed to a back-to-school follow-up medical mission to St. Ann Jamaica this summer, the schedule dates are July 27 through the 31st 2015. They will conduct health and dental clinics offering screenings, tests and treatments, issue eyeglasses, much-needed medicines and medical supplies, backpacks and school supplies. The local Rotary club will host am on the mission and will assist them and painting the Exchange Basic School, a kindergarten school located approximately 3 miles outside Ocho Rios.
Terry Layne Staff Writer tlayne@olchouston.com During the month of June 2015, we will celebrate the Tenth Anniversary of Caribbean American Heritage Month in the United States of America. In summary, the underlying reason for this commemorative practice is to openly acknowledge a valued presence of people of Caribbean heritage, living or having lived in the U.S. and making invaluable contributions to the growth and development of this nation. The Bill was introduced by Congresswoman Barbara Lee of California, and was pass by the House of Representatives in June of 2005. The intended purpose was to bring greater Visibility, Voice, Vote and Agency to this segment of the American social fabric, not only during the month of June; but continuously and in perpetuity throughout the life of this nation.
As we celebrate this first decade of national acknowledgement, I selected Ms Joan Douglas as a modular focus for the exemplary manner in which she has developed herself and others in the professional practice of Cadiotech- Sonography. Ms Douglas serves as the CEO of the Cardio Tech Ultrasound School in Houston, Texas located at 12135 Bissonnet , where she oversees a Nationally Accredited six (6) tract Program through which a student can become a Sonographer in less than two years. Leaving her homeland of Grenada shortly after completing high school, Ms Douglas migrated to the U.S. following her dreams as she evolved. It was not without challenges that she would eventually overcome the sometimes shocking differences between New York City and Grenada’s Capital City of St. George’s. But she confidently describes herself as “fearless;” meaning that she takes risks, where others tend to remain stagnantly “safe.” It’s not only about dreaming; but about actively living what you dream! We salute Ms Joan Douglas as a living legacy of Caribbean heritage, who works daily at developing the growth and expansion of professionals in the field of Ultra-sound Technology in Houston.
Artencia Raffington is the Founder of United for Hope foundation
Joan Douglas
Staff at Cardio Tech Ultrasound School
JUNE 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
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ISLAND STYLEE
ULTURE
JOKES | SATIRE | POEMS
ISLAND RECIPES THE ART OF CARIBBEAN COOKING
It’s Mango Season Trini Mango Chutney
Caribbean Mango Sauce
Ingredients 1/4 cup chopped red onion 1/4 cup lime juice 1/4 cup vinegar 1-1/2 cups ripe mango, peeled, chopped 1 tablespoon honey 2 tsp gingerroot, chopped 2 tsp chopped fresh mint leaves
Ingredients 6 whole mango, peeled and seeded 1 Scot Bonnet pepper 4 whole lime, for juice 2 cups orange juice ¼ cup apple vinegar 1 tsp Adobo 2 cups water 2 table salt Directions In large pot add scot bonnet pepper, water and salt. Allow to boil for 15 minutes, then drain but save 3/4 cup of boiled mix.
Directions Combine all ingredients in medium bowl. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve with chicken, turkey or pork.
Trini Mango Chutney
Pour in the saved water and all ingredients except vinegar in a blender. Puree mixture. Return mixture to pot and allow simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. Stir constantly. Remove from heat and add in vinegar. Stir. Allow to cool. Keeps in refrigerated for up to four months.
Grilled Tilapia with Mango Salsa
Ingredients 4 fresh tilapia fillets 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 1/3 cup white wine 2 tsp jerk seasoning 1 tbsp parsley flakes 8 oz can sliced pineapple in its own juice Salsa: 2/3 cup chopped mango 2 tbsp lime juice 2 tbsp orange juice 4 tsp scot bonnet pepper, chopped 4 tsp red onions, chopped 2 tsp red bell pepper, chopped 2 tsp green bell pepper, chopped 1 tsp parsley flakes 1 tsp black pepper
Grilled Tilapia with Mango Salsa
Serve as sweet and spicy for chicken, pork, or fish.
Island Green Mango Salad
Directions Mix olive oil, wine and parsley then marinate fish in the mixture for 1 hour. Sprinkle fish with the jerk seasoning and pineapple juice. Place fish on well oiled hot grill. Baste oil marinade on fish. Place pineapple slices on grill. Flip fish over and sprinkle with remaining seasonings.
Ingredients 5 Mango, thinly sliced 1/4 onion, thinly sliced 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 cup vinegar Salt and black pepper 1 tbsp. scot bonnet pepper
Island Green Mango Salad Add pineapple juice and oil marinade as on first side. Flip pineapple slices.
Directions Combine mango and onion in a large bowl. Add vinegar and olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Serve fish with pineapple slices and top with mango salsa. To make salsa mix all ingredients well and refrigerate for an hour or more before serving.
Optional: Add scot bonnet for sharp taste. Let stand for about 20 minutes. Mix and serve.
Kathleen’s Kitchen
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How de Saleman end-up eating horse manure A little old lady in St. John, Antigua answered her doorbell, only to be confronted by an eager young American man displaying a shiny new vacuum cleaner. “Good morning lady’ said the young man. “May I demonstrate the greatest and latest vacuum cleaner to come out of the United States. There’s nothing like it.’ The old lady replied, “Go way! Shock man! Ah broke and mi na have no mooni!’’ Before she could close the door, the young man wedged his foot in the door and pushed it open. “Not so fast, lady. Give me a chance to show you the demonstration.’’ While saying that, he emptied a bucket of horse manure onto her carpet. “Now, watch me remove every trace of this manure from your carpet, lady. If this vacuum cleaner does not do the job, I will eat up what’s left myself.’’ The old lady turned around and went into the house, saying, “Mi gonn have to a knife and fork, Jackboy; cause dem disconnected mi light dis marnin.”
Life of a Stooch Kittian Arthur, a 90 years old stoosch Kittian, lived in America most of his life. Upon his retirement 25 years ago, he returns to St. Kitts to enjoy the fresh sea breeze in Black Rock Bay. As he did in Long Island, NY, he continued playing golf every day. One day he returned home looking depressed. “That’s it”, he tells his wife. “I am giving up golf. My eyesight has gotten so bad that after I hit the ball I can’t see where it goes.” His wife sympathizes and made him a cup of tea. As they sit down in the verandah drinking the tea, she says, “Why don’t you take my brother with you and give it one more try?” “That’s no good!” shout Arthur. “Your brother’s 103 years old. He can’t help!” “He may be 103,” says the wife, “but his eyesight is perfect.” So the next day, Arthur heads off to the golf course with his brother-in-law in tow. At the first hole, he tees the ball up, takes a mighty swing, and squints down the fairway. He turns to the brother-in-law. “Did you see the ball?” “Of course I did!” “Where did it go?” asked Arthur. “I can’t remember.”
In Honor of Emanpication Day July 3, 1848 General Buddhoe led the revolt in St. Croix leading to the end of slavery in the Danish West Indies. The Africans were finally free. They were no longer slaves or the property of the planters. After nearly two hundred years of struggle, they were emancipated. CLEAR DE ROAD by Marie Richards Clear de road, ah’yo clear de road Clear de road leh de slave dem pas, we a’go fo’ ah’we freedom. Hardship in de marnin’, sufferin’ at night No one ever help us, it is only Father Ryan. Dey bring we here from Africa, das we barnin’ land Bring we ya in slavery, in de land of Santa Cruz. Clear de road, ah’yo clear de road Clear de road leh de slave dem pas, we u’go fo’ ah’we freedom We no want no bloodshed, not a drop of bloodshed What we want is freedom, oh gi’ we ah’we freedom. Com leh ah’we go to town, leh we meet de Gen’ral Gen’ral name is Buddhoe, he gon’ gi’ we freedom. Clear de road, ah’yo clear de road Clear de road l eh de slave dem pass, we a’go fo’ ah’we freedom. Governor von Scholten, da Governor von Scholten Stretch he power till he crack, and he write down ah’we freedom. Clear de road, ah’yo clear de road Clear de road leh de slave dem pas, we a’go fo’ ah’we freedom
From Page 5 E-Verify also allow ICE to use the information collected to perform I-9 audits and initiate work enforcement raids. The program has many benefits, but it is important to make sure your employees have the right work eligibility documents and that you determine these are in place at the start of the employment cycle. The analysis and suggestions offered in this article do not create a lawyer-client relationship, is for information only, and are not a substitute for personalized representation that is essential to every case. Latania Mena is an Immigration Attorney and a Caribbean National based in the Southwest Houston, Texas.
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
JUNE 2015
COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE Mount Bethel House of Prayer in Houston 6818 Cullen Boulevard Houston, TX 77021
Spiritual Baptist Church Mother Kathleen Joseph
(713) 842-2990
From Page 4 lowers your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers and helps you stay at a healthy weight. Overall, it can help you deal with stress and sleep better. This year, CBCF also focused on prostate other cancer as part of their initiative of “Focus on other Cancer” (FOOC). David Collins, a prostate cancer survivor, spoke on the subject and encouraged men to do a medical check for the malignancy. Dr. Abraham was extremely proud of the achievement of the foundation’s objective within the past year. First, she explained of providing financial assistance to patients while receiving treatment for cancer. “That’s why we collect monies and have fundraising events,” she said. Secondly, “We have developed a group of breast cancer survi-
vors; those who join the group are amazing. They provide comfort as well as information to those suffering with cancer,” said Paula. The support group maintain a listing of cancer survivors with which a patient can talk to, when needed. CBCF is reaching to survivor in the Houston community to join the support group. Third, CBCF is now collaborating with vendors to supply breast prosthesis and bras to survivors at a minimal cost. Understanding, the condition of cancer may require removal of the breast (mastectomy). However, while many women may consider reconstructive surgery, some may choose breast prosthesis. And the foundation is in line with meeting this need. Finally, Dr. Abraham and the Board of CBCF thank everyone who participated, and look forward to next year’s event.
IDENTITY THEFT - A GROWING PROBLEM OLC - Identity theft is one of the nation’s fastest-growing, most expensive criminal enterprises. Every year more than 25,000 Texans report being victims of identity theft with thousands more unaware that their information and bank accounts have been targeted. Identity thieves use stolen information to obtain new credit cards, open checking accounts, make long distance or collect calls, or make purchases on a stolen credit card. Think it can’t happen to you? Think again. Take action! Don’t let your good name be ruined by swindlers. 1. Immediately close all accounts that you know were used by a thief or that you suspect have been compromised. Make a list of all your bank, credit, utility and service accounts. 2. Report the crime to your local
JUNETEENTH AND SLAVERY IN TEXAS not rebel against the union.
By Dr. Edwin Felix Contributing Writer
When union soldiers landed at Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865, and the surrender of General Lee in April 1865, the news of freedom quickly spread across Texas and many of the confederate states. Probably the greatest surprise came when General Granger read the following:
Juneteenth is referred to as the date when the last slaves were freed in the United States.. This was indeed a historic day for the slaves. General Gordon Granger rode into Galveston and issued general order No. 3 on June 19, 1865. Abraham Lincoln did what he had to do whether to free the slaves or to save the Union. There are a lot of questions about Lincoln’s position on slavery. One of those questions posed by many liberals and conservatives is: Was Lincoln really interested in freeing the slaves or was he more concerned about preserving the Union? Many would say that Abraham Lincoln was more interested in preserving the union than bringing freedom to the slaves. Lincoln once wrote: “My paramount object in this struggle is to save the union, and it is not either to save or destroy slavery.” Many have perceived that Lincoln’s aim was to preserve the union and not necessarily ending slavery or keeping slavery. President Abraham Lincoln issued
the Emancipation Proclamation on September 23, 1862, notifying the states in rebellion against the union that if they did not cease their rebellion and return to the union by January 1, 1863, he would declare their slaves free forever. What does that statement mean? Think about it. The proclamation was ignored by those states that seceded from the union. However, the proclamation did not apply to those slave-holding states that did
“The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a proclamation from the executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of rights, and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection therefore existing between them becomes that between employee and free labor.” Texas did not experience any significant invasion by union forces. CConsequently, slavery continued to thrive in Texas. Many slave owners from other slave holding states brought their slaves to Texas until the war was over. When colored people in Texas heard the news, they sang, danced,
law enforcement agency. Get a copy of the police report and case number. Keep a log of all conversations including date, name, phone number and the information provided. 3. Report the matter to the Federal Trade Commission, which keeps a database of identity thefts at (877) FTC-HELP; Address: FTC, CRC40, Washington D.C. 20580. Submit a copy of the affidavit to creditors who agree to accept it instead of a police report or instead of the creditor’s own affidavit form. 4. Contact these Agencies: • Public Safety D512) 424-2600 • Social Security - 800-269-0271 • IRS - (800) 829-1040 • U.S. Postal - (800) 372-8347 • U.S. Passport - (877) 487-2778 An identity thief might use your personal information to fraudulently obtain a driver’s license, and prayed. With joy and Jubilation, the slaves left their masters to reunite with their once united families. To many, freedom meant more than the right to travel freely. It meant the right to name one’s self and many freedmen gave themselves new names. County courthouses were overcrowded as blacks applied for licenses to legalize their marriages. Emancipation allowed ex- slaves the right to assembly and openly worship as they saw fit. Juneteenth symbolizes the end of slavery and it serves as a historical milestone to remind Americans of the triumph of the human spirit over the cruelty of slavery. But, what does the bible say about slavery? Many believe that the bible lacks a clear condemnation of slavery while at the same time it offers information of hope and freedom. Exodus 21 clearly states the laws on how to treat slaves. So slavery was quite legal because God laid down the rules to obtain and treat Hebrew servants. The oppression of the Israelites under the Egyptians and their deliverance from slavery by our creator is one of the most crucial stories in the Hebrew bible. The promise of freedom has res-
file for bankruptcy, apply for Social Security benefits or even get a passport. 5. Monitor Your Credit Report to Thwart Continued Identity Theft Abuses. The three major credit bureaus is required to provide one free copy of your credit report per year.Credit bureau phone numbers: • Equifax: 800-525-6285 • Experian: 888-397-3742 • Transunion: 800-680-7289 Request your free credit reports. Annual Credit Report Request Svc Box 105283, Atlanta, GA 303485283. Telephone: (877) 322-8228 www.annualcreditreport.com 6. File an Application with Texa District Court Requesting a Court Order Declaring That You are a Victim of Identity Theft. onated for thousands of years, as seen in the famous spiritual, go down Moses which offered hope to slaves in nineteenth century America. There are several other readings in the bible that addressed Paul’s own position on slavery. In 1 Corinthians 7:21 Paul was encouraging slaves to seized an opportunity to become free. Remember the glorious statement that Paul made in Galathians 3:28. He said that there is no longer Jews or Greeks, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female For all of you are one in Christ Jesus.
From Page 6 economy following the end of slavery by the British Parliament in 1834. At the time, the former African slave disregarded the plantations and found work elsewhere. The East Indians brought with them new cuisine, habits, traditions, customs and Hinduism, creating the Indo-Trinidadian culture. It is now targeted to promote tourism and a stimulus for economic growth and development.
One Love Caribbean Call 281-769 2253
JUNE 2015
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