OPEN LETTER: A Clarion Call to Restore Dignity to Our National Monuments

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Dear Editor,

To His Excellency the Governor General, the Honourable Prime Minister and all Esteemed Parliamentarians, the Brigadier of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, the Esteemed Members of the Ex-Servicemen Association, the St. John’s Development Corporation, and by extension, the Proud People of Antigua and Barbuda, it is with a profound sense of disappointment and a deep yearning for national pride that I pen this open letter regarding the lamentable state of our National Monument, the Cenotaph/War Memorial.

This edifice, a solemn tribute to the sacrifices made by our brave men and women, stands as a powerful symbol of our nation’s gratitude and remembrance. Yet, its current condition reflects a disheartening lack of consistent care and respect.

With the exception of the period preceding our annual Remembrance Day parade in November, this hallowed ground is too often found in a state of neglect, marred by dirt and a clear absence of diligent upkeep.

I use the term “edifice” with the understanding of its significance as a substantial and impressive structure, a fitting descriptor for a memorial of such national importance.

It was with utter dismay that I observed on Friday last that the very symbol of our nation’s sovereignty and pride, our flag, was not even flying. This is simply unacceptable.

This monument is not merely a structure of stone; it is a sacred space that embodies the courage and dedication of those who served to protect our freedoms.

It demands our unwavering respect and continuous attention, not just a fleeting acknowledgment once a year. It should be a place of perpetual reverence, a testament to our enduring gratitude.

Therefore, I implore the relevant authorities to implement a regime of daily cleaning and constant maintenance for the Cenotaph

Furthermore, I firmly believe that consideration must be given to establishing a ceremonial guard.

While acknowledging potential manpower constraints, I propose a practical solution: on days when our shores welcome cruise ships, a symbolic presence of ABDF soldiers at the monument would not only honor our fallen heroes but also serve as a powerful and poignant element of our tourism offering.

Given its central location, charging an entry fee may not be feasible. However, I strongly suggest the placement of a dignified contribution box, allowing visitors and citizens alike to contribute towards the upkeep of the monument.

Alongside this, a visitor book would provide an invaluable opportunity for individuals to record their sentiments and pay their respects.

These contributions should be directly channeled to the Ex-Servicemen Association, bolstering their vital work in supporting our living veterans and the surviving spouses of those who have passed.

Urgent consideration must also be given to the state of the bust of our National Hero, the Right Excellent Sir Vere Cornwall Bird Sr. This monument, too, deserves the same level of respect and consistent care.

The measures proposed for the Cenotaph – regular cleaning, maintenance, and perhaps even a contribution box and visitor book – are equally applicable here.

Furthermore, the current situation with vendors operating in close proximity to the bust detracts from its dignity.

I urge the St. John’s Development Corporation to relocate these vendors at least 6 to 10 feet away, creating a more respectful and befitting environment.

Imagine an area near the VC Bird bust where, on cruise ship days, excerpts of Sir Vere’s powerful speeches could be played, interspersed with short, impactful testimonials from ordinary citizens and esteemed figures reflecting on his legacy.

This would transform the space into a living tribute, educating visitors and reminding us of the foundations upon which our nation was built.

The time for complacency is over. We, as a government and as a people, must rise to the occasion and demonstrate genuine respect for our national monuments and, by extension, for the sacrifices of those who have served this proud nation with such yeoman’s service.

This is not merely about aesthetics; it is about upholding our values, honoring our history, and instilling a sense of civic pride in ourselves and future generations.

I issue a resounding call to action:

To the Governor General, Prime Minister, and Parliamentarians: Allocate the necessary resources and enact the policies required to ensure the daily upkeep and dignified presentation of our national monuments.

To the Brigadier of the ABDF: Explore the feasibility of a ceremonial guard, particularly on cruise ship days, to honor our veterans and enhance our tourism product.

To the Ex-Servicemen Association: Continue your invaluable work and collaborate with the government and the public to ensure the sacrifices of your comrades are never forgotten.

To the St. John’s Development Corporation: Take immediate steps to improve the environment surrounding both the Cenotaph and the VC Bird bust, including the relocation of vendors.

And to the People of Antigua and Barbuda: Let us rise to this duty call. Let us demand that our national monuments are treated with the respect they deserve.

Let us contribute, both financially and through our vigilance, to their upkeep.

Let us reclaim our civic pride and ensure that these symbols of our nation’s history stand tall and proud for generations to come.

The time for urgent action is now.

Let us not allow these vital symbols of our nation’s identity to fall further into neglect.

Let our collective voice be heard, demanding the dignity and respect that our national monuments, and the sacrifices they represent, so rightly deserve.

A Concerned Citizen of Antigua and Barbuda.

With Thanks

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