Sir Franklyn Wilson & Sean McWeeney discuss The Bahamas’ 50th Independence

IN THE very room where young college and university students brought political leaders together to debate prior to Bahamian Independence, two of these former youth leaders sat on a stage more than 50 years later to talk about the ideals that led to the formation of a new Bahamas.

Sir Franklyn Wilson and Sean McWeeney, KC, were both very young men with high ideals, pursuing tertiary education. They were both major players in a group of Bahamian university and college students from abroad, called Unicoll. These students would make a significant impact on the Bahamian political landscape.

They brought members of the two major partiesthe United Bahamian Party and the Progressive Liberal Party - and other political leaders together for a series of debates. Their ideals included living in a country with equal opportunity and respect for mankind, regardless of race, social status or origin. Many of these young Unicoll members drew inspiration from the nation builders celebrated as the country now embarks upon its 50th Independence anniversary.

Both men were featured guests at the 50th Independence Anniversary Distinguished Conversation on the topic “A Return to Idealism” held at the University of The Bahamas Performing Arts Auditorium held on May 9.

Mr McWeeney pointed out that one common denominator that people who epitomised idealism in The Bahamas had, was a true sense of selflessness, serving their country above self.

“There were individuals who, at various times in our history, have risen above themselves - sometimes in just one single spectacular verse that emblazons them into history - in other cases the cumulative accomplishments of a lifetime,” Mr. McWeeney said.

“Deep down, there was always a subjugation of self to the service of higher ideals that make us better than we were before.”

“We could refer to it as the power of one - individuals who do not wait on the government or someone else to do things for them. They go out there, through their own initiative, do something truly historic and transformative.”

During the course of the discussion, both men gave