At Your Fingertips

AT YOUR NEWSLETTER

On April 4, 2023, the Vauxhall Primary School located in Barbados, was renamed the Shirley Chisholm Primary School and is set to continue on with a higher level of excellence.

Tribute to Grantley Watson Diary of a Depressed Woman Opportunity Calls Calendar of events - March 2024

FINGERTIPS FEBRUARY 2024 | ISSUE #1

Shirley Anita St. Hill Chisholm is the seven-term Democrat, who represented New York’s 12th Congressional District in the House of Representatives from 1969 until 1983. She was also the first woman to seek the nomination of a major party to run for President of the United States and ran under the slogan “Unbought and Unbossed”.

Ms. Chisholm is full of symbolism and her true and lasting significance lies in the fact that not only was she a trailblazer when it comes to the direct involvement of black women at the highest level of representation, but also in the fact that whenever a woman becomes President of the USA, it will be the completion of last leg of a journey which Shirley began in 1972.

Born in New York City, Shirley Chisholm spent her formative years in Vauxhall, Christ Church, with her grandmother. She often referred to her well-rounded British education in Barbados as having laid the foundation for her success. She died at the age of 80 in 2005.

On April 4, 2023, the Vauxhall Primary School was renamed the Shirley Chisholm Primary School and is set to continue on with a higher level of excellence.

Retired Commissioner of Police and former Executive Director of the Regional Security System (RSS), Grantley Watson, has left a legacy which remains a point of reference for those who now have the honour and duty of protecting Barbados and its citizens by maintaining law, order and stability.

This sentiment from Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley was underscored in a statement in which she offered condolences to the family, friends and colleagues on the passing of Mr. Watson.

Ms. Mottley stated that Barbados and the region were indebted to Mr. Watson as he had dedicated over 50 years of his life to ensuring the safetly and security of the people.

“He served the Caribbean with distinction, with never a hint of unprofessionalism or corruption — leaving a record for all to emulate,” she affirmed.

The Prime Minister recalled her time as Attorney General when Mr. Wastson was serving as Commissioner of Police, and noted that he had “practised a style of leadership that not only commanded the respect of his force, but reassured Barbadians that criminals would never be allowed to dictate the quality of our lives.

“He led from the front, literally, was seen regularly on the street with his officers and understood the importance of communicating with the population.”

The Official Funeral with Military Honours for Grantley Sylvester Watson will be held on Friday, March 8, at the St. Thomas Parish Church, Arch Hall, St. Thomas, from 1:00 p.m.

May he rest in peace.

The BGIS Factor In the labyrinth of governance, where citizens often seek clarity and direction, the role of the Barbados Government Information Service (BGIS) is paramount. Since November 1958, the BGIS has acted as the bridge between government officials and members of the public, and serves as the beacon of transparency and accessibility in a modern modern democracy.

By Sharifa Medford

The BGIS team utilises various tools to ensure that members of the public receive accurate and timely information on the programmes and policies of the Government.

At its core, the BGIS strives to inform, educate, and engage citizens by disseminating accurate, timely, and relevant information about government policies, programmes, and services. Whether it is through its social media platforms, website, email or the BGIS Alert App, or via traditional forms of media – print, television and radio, the BGIS strives to ensure that citizens have the necessary tools to navigate the complexities of governance and make informed decisions.

As we delve into a new technological age, the Information officers, under the guidance of the Chief and Deputy Information Officers, introduce new programmes and initiatives to bring to life the vision of the BGIS – to be the leading government information hub of Barbados. And, while the department may create new strategies to reach its increased younger audience, it has not abandoned its established treasures such as Opportunity Calls and Community Files.

Moreover, the BGIS plays a crucial role in fostering accountability and trust between the government and the citizens of Barbados. By promoting open communication channels and facilitating public feedback mechanisms, the BGIS empowers citizens to actively participate in the democratic process, ultimately contributing to a more informed and engaged society.

In essence, the Barbados Government Information Service is not simply a conduit of information but a cornerstone of democracy, promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen empowerment.

DIARY OF A Depressed Woman

Dear Diary, It has been 19 months since I was diagnosed with depression. One year and seven months of ups and downs, countless visits to the Mental Health Clinic and months and months of medication. It really has not been easy, but nonetheless, I am one giant step away from where I started.

I honestly don’t know where I would be today if I had not sought professional help.

Daily I see people struggling with their own mental health issues and it is only due to fear of discrimination that they refuse to get the necessary help. Yes, I have reached out, opened up, shared my story with them, passed on the relevant contact information, but at the end of the day I can only do so much. It is up to the individual to acknowledge that they have a problem and make a personal decision to seek assistance.

And, while I am proud of myself for the strides I have made, I am still somewhat timid and wary of pointing fingers and judgmental eyes. I still get nervous that someone might see me when I collect my medication from the Psychiatric Hospital’s pharmacy. I worry that cruel children might hear about my situation and tease my children about their mentally ill mother. But I hope that someday I will be able to stand up and share my story publicly with the hopes of inspiring others like me, that there is a solution. If I had had that opportunity, I would tell them:

7

TO GET MORE INFORMATION ON DEPRESSION AND FIND OUT THE WARNING SIGNS, YOU MAY CLICK HERE.

Talk to a Psychiatrist / Psychologist Untreated depression could lead you down a dark and treacherous path and possibly to the point of no return.

Ignore that gnawing voice in the back of your head that is telling you “get over it” and get the help that you need. Some people have the silly belief that only persons in movies go to the psychiatrist and people with mental health issues belong locked up in a room. Dismiss those myths. And, if it is money that you are worried about, visit the Mental Health Clinic at your nearest polyclinic; there is no cost attached. Trust me, it is a judgement-free zone.

Follow the doctor’s orders Once you have made the step to get professional help, stick to the regime which the doctor has recommended for you. Yes, there are days that you will feel like you are 100 per cent better, but there is a strong chance that your initial feelings will creep back in, especially if you are going through an emotional situation.

Focus on your achievements You do not need to be a Grammy winner or the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award, but there are things which you have achieved that you do not give yourself enough credit for.

Acknowledge and celebrate them.

Stay away from negative people We all have those “friends” who have nothing to talk about but other people’s business or find themselves in the middle of some type of drama and can possibly drag you into the midst of it. Cut them off! You already have enough on your plate and do not need any negative influencers lurking around to add to your situation.

”LETTING MY FAMILY KNOW FROM THE VERY BEGINNING WHAT I WAS GOING THROUGH MADE IT EASIER FOR THEM TO ASSIST ME AS I ATTEMPTED TO OVERCOME THIS ILLNESS.” Find quality time for you and your family Throughout the last year I have found a support system in my children and close family members. Days at the beach, impromptu picnics, drives around the island and movie nights at home have been my source of relaxation and mental peace.

Letting my family know from the very beginning what I was going through made it easier for them to assist me as I attempted to overcome this illness. So, talk to them, share your feelings and invite them to one of your sessions so that your doctor can further explain your situation.

And, to persons who may not be fighting a mental battle, I offer these words by the late Robin Williams: “Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be kind.

Always.”

13-YEAR-OLD STUDENT RECEIVES GAINING STRIPES AWARD

by Sharon Austin-Gill Moore

Thirteen-year-old Christina Sargeant receives $1,000.00 from owner of Shehaul Construction Inc., Jada Chase while Minister of State in the Office of the Attorney General with responsibility for Crime Prevention, Corey Lane, and Christina’s mother, Sagirah Craigg, look on. (J. Bishop/BGIS)

Thirteen-year-old Christina Sargeant has a heart of gold, and her selfless efforts have earned her the National Peace Program’s Gaining Stripes Award for January 2024.

The Third Form student of Deighton Griffith Secondary School recently shared her lunch money, snacks, and even purchased something to eat for an abused, homeless man.

She was praised for the kind gesture and presented with $1,000, during a ceremony at the Criminal Justice Research Unit, #5 Alphonzo House, 2nd Avenue, Belleville, St. Michael, on Tuesday.

Minister of State in the Office of the Attorney General with responsibility for Crime Prevention, Corey Lane, commended the teenager and saluted her for her positive actions.

“Why that act was so significant and stands out to the team and myself is because when some…see the homeless, they scoff at them and scorn them; she went beyond and she sought to assist,” Mr. Lane stated.

The Minister of State also lauded corporate Barbados for coming on board and donating the money to the recipients of the Gaining Stripes initiative.

15

After making the donation to Christina, owner of Shehaul Construction Inc., Jada Chase, said she became emotional when she read the article, especially since that kind deed was something that she herself would have done.

Ms. Chase continued: “I commend you and I ask you to don’t give up; continue to help. Help goes a long way and I ask you to encourage more of your friends to lend a helping hand.”

Christina said she is motivated to help homeless people. “When I see homeless people, I think, suppose me and my mother were in that situation? So, if I can help, I will try to help, even if it is my lunch money [I have to spend on the person] and I have to go the whole day without eating, I would try and help.”

She noted that this was not the first time she assisted, as she shared an experience with those present. “Another morning I was in town, around 7:30 to 8:00, and I went to buy something, but then I saw a man and he was asking for money and I was like, if you want something, tell me.

“He told me he just wanted something to eat and a bottle of water, so I went and bought him two doughnuts and three bottles of water, with all of my lunch money,” she revealed.

Christina has encouraged her peers not to interfere or hurt the homeless people. “Try to help if they can,” she urged.

Her mother, Sagirah Craigg, said she is very proud of her daughter for displaying such kindness. “I always try to teach her and her brother that a kind act…goes a long way…. You don’t know what somebody might be going through at that point.

We have our rough days but if I see somebody in a worse situation than I am, I try to help, so I pass on the same message to my kids. A kind act goes a long way,” Ms. Craigg stressed.

Christina will use the money she received for her kind deed to help her mother.

The Gaining Stripes initiative seeks to promote the exceptional work, tasks, or deeds of citizens of Barbados and was conceptualised to act as a counter to negativity in society. It was introduced in December 2023.

The One Family Programme seeks to reach 1,000 vulnerable families.

It is an initiative of the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs.

For more information on the One Family Programme, call 535-1780 or 535-1706.

Emails may be sent to one.family@barbados.gov.bb, and WhatsApp messages to 266-1654.

15

PHOTO STOP Schools across the island celebrated African Awareness month and these little ones dressed in traditional African garb as part of the festivities.

REPEAT VISITOR CELEBRATES 100TH BIRTHDAY

by Troy Barker

There was a celebratory mood on Tuesday, February 13, in Rockley, Christ Church, as family members and friends of British born Gwendoline Joan Fox, affectionately known as “Nanna”, came together to wish her a happy 100th birthday.

Among the specially invited guests was President of Barbados, Her Excellency, The Most Honourable Dame Sandra Mason.

Mrs. Fox, a long-stay visitor, who has been consistently travelling to Barbados for 50 years, said she always looked forward to celebrating her 100th birthday on the island with family and receiving an official visit from the Governor General, now President..

The centenarian discovered Barbados through her son, Michael Fox, who first visited with a friend in the early 1970s, “just on a whim”, and stayed at the Southwinds Hotel (now Divi Southwinds Beach Resort).

15

Mr. Fox noted that back then “we had such an unbelievable time; came home and told mum and dad and everybody how fantastic it was…had the pictures…next thing I know they are all booked”. He added: “I have been here 22 times…. These guys (the family members) have been coming here for 50 years…. It is a second home for everybody.”

One of the centenarian’s granddaughters, Shauna Tsuchiya, in her tribute, remarked: “We have had the honour of coming to Barbados every year with Nanna; it feels like a second home…. I was privileged to be able to do part of my medical residency training in Barbados…. It is Nanna bringing us together as a family… We are all here because of Nanna.”

Mrs. Fox was born in Royal Tunbridge, United Kingdom, and attended Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School. She was in school when World War II began. During the war, she served as an Air Raid Warden and a Wartime Telephonist.

The centenarian has a passion for ballroom dancing, and it was through this that she met her husband, Gerald S. Fox, a pilot in the RAF Bomber Command (Lancaster). They were married in 1945 and migrated to Canada in 1953.

Mrs. Fox worked as an Accounts Administrator at St. John’s Convalescent Hospital, Ontario, Canada, until retirement. She spends eight months of the year in Canada and four months in Barbados enjoying audio books, watching baseball, and memorising poems. She was able to recite from memory “In Flanders Fields” by John McCrae.

When asked what she loves most about Barbados, Mrs. Fox replied: “The weather and the people, everything about it.” She further noted that coming to Barbados and sitting outdoors during the winter months and the warmth of friends and family that visit her have helped her to remain fit and healthy.

Mrs. Fox worked as an Accounts Administrator at St. John’s Convalescent Hospital, Ontario, Canada, until retirement. She spends eight months of the year in Canada and four months in Barbados enjoying audio books, watching baseball, and memorising poems. She was able to recite from memory “In Flanders Fields” by John McCrae.

When asked what she loves most about Barbados, Mrs. Fox replied: “The weather and the people, everything about it.” She further noted that coming to Barbados and sitting outdoors during the winter months and the warmth of friends and family that visit her have helped her to remain fit and healthy.