OPINION: Are We Truly Doing Enough as Antiguans and Barbudans to Preserve our History and Culture?

Are We Truly Doing Enough as Antiguans and Barbudans to Preserve our History and Culture.

Independence should resonate deeply within the hearts of all Antiguans and Barbudans. It is a significant milestone that represents our collective identity, yet it seems that this celebration has started to lose its true meaning and impact annually.

The responsibility to honor our history and educate both the younger generation and our non-national peers lies heavily on us, rather than solely depending on government initiatives or the Ministry of Creative Industries. As citizens we need to take ownership of our heritage, actively promoting a sense of pride that goes beyond official events.

Reflecting on initiatives like the annual National Dress Day, it is disheartening to see the lack of enthusiasm, especially within the private sector and many schools that opted to hosting Mod day activities instead of aligning their support and focus on the importance of this initiative. This lack of patriotism is palpable every year, diminishing the vibrancy of our cultural celebrations and almost disrespectful to our culture and us as citizens who are deeply passionate about our heritage.

The annual Youth Rally, which should be a major outlet to further reinforce and promote the significance of attaining political independence often disappoints. Not to mention the overwhelming infusion of dancehall music during the judged competitions (DJ, Drills, Cheerleading). While diverse musical expressions are welcomed, they should not overshadow our local music especially songs significant to the celebrations. It’s essential to strike a balance that honors our cultural roots, allowing our local music to shine through.

Our national food fair as well have gradually shifted and continue towards mainstream offerings such as burgers, wings and pasta, diluting the local culinary experience and alienating interest from people who actually want to experience our local food, snacks, sweet treats. Do not get me wrong – Antigua is a melting pot of islands and culture and it warms my heart to see the various islands having a space to showcase their culinary offerings but at our national food fair ALL THINGS ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA should be front and center. Last year, I was literally on a quest to find stuff like ashum, sugar cake, homemade ice-cream and the likes and the local food was lost lost lost in between the long lines for pasta, burgers, seafood boil, etc.

The concern is whether in the next 20 years, our unique culture will become a mere memory, faded by the neglect and disinterest that we witness daily. A recent conversation with a non-national coworker made me pause and reflect on this reality. Their excitement about experiencing our Independence was palpable; however, they noted how it seemed to lack the fervor and significance they associate with celebrations in their homeland.

This perspective has prompted me to introspect on the level of civic pride that I, as a born Antiguan, may have taken for granted. It is crucial for us to rekindle that pride and commitment to our culture, ensuring that our Independence remains a vibrant and celebrated aspect of our identity.

“But my people fought on for 400 years, oppressed faces drenched with tears, so now that we have become a free nation sound de drum – Antigua Freedom Forever – Barbuda Freedom Forever”

May we never forget the reason for our annual celebrations!

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