Commonwealth_ Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley has urged Barbadians to honor the sacrifices of their forebears and unite in shaping a prosperous future for the nation. Addressing the Independence Ceremonial Parade at Kensington Oval on Saturday, which marked Barbados’ 58th year of independence and its third year as a republic, Mottley emphasized the enduring resilience of the Barbadian people.
Reflecting on the trials of 2024, she highlighted how Barbados has historically risen above challenges, from the scars of slavery and colonialism to contemporary struggles with economic pressures, social issues, and the climate crisis. She underscored the need for collective action, citing the inspirational words of Shirley Chisholm, a trailblazing figure in American politics of Barbadian descent:
“We must see ourselves in an entirely new perspective and cannot sit in our homes, waiting for someone to reach out and do things for us… That is why we must get up and prepare our own way. Smallness may limit us from doing everything, but it also makes us nimble and agile.”
Mottley also stressed the importance of resilience in confronting modern adversities, from the escalating impacts of climate change to social concerns like rising gun violence. Despite these challenges, she noted the nation’s significant achievements, including sustained confidence from credit rating agencies and international investors, ensuring that Barbadians remain “owners of these fields and hills beyond recall.”
A central theme of her speech was the rebuilding of the fishing industry, which suffered devastating losses from Hurricane Beryl. Mottley assured fishers that the government is committed to restoring their livelihoods by repairing the damaged harbor and constructing a new one to withstand future climate challenges.
Highlighting progress, the Prime Minister celebrated the renewal of social services and infrastructure, the restoration of free tertiary education for all Barbadians, and the reduction of the debt-to-GDP ratio. She shared an optimistic vision for 2025, describing it as a “boom year” for national activity, energy, and construction projects.
Among the anticipated developments, Mottley announced the unveiling of a monument at the Newton Burial Ground in Christ Church to honor the ancestors of Barbados, scheduled for May 2025. She also revealed that the “We Gatherin’” celebrations, paused during the pandemic, will resume next year, commencing in January in St. Lucy and progressing through all parishes, concluding in St. Michael.
Concluding her address, Mottley directed a heartfelt appeal to young Barbadians, urging them to cultivate peace and leadership:
“I ask our young people to remember this day, because it is to you we must turn for the seeds of leadership to flourish. Foster respect for yourselves and others, and learn to resolve conflicts peacefully. As we call for global peace, let us start by ensuring peace in our schools, communities, and homes.”
Adding to the day’s significance, Hakeem Jeffries, Democratic Leader in the United States Congress, delivered remarks celebrating the deep ties between Barbados and the United States. Jeffries pledged the U.S.’s continued support for Barbados’ economic growth, referencing the recent signing of a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Export-Import Bank. This agreement secures $500 million in funding for renewable energy, cybersecurity, water management, sanitation, and maritime infrastructure projects, with the potential to generate thousands of jobs and spur significant economic development.
Jeffries also commended Barbados’ leadership in addressing climate change, acknowledging its vulnerability as an island nation. He emphasized the importance of global cooperation in confronting the climate crisis, lauding Prime Minister Mottley’s efforts:
“Barbados stands at the front line in the fight against climate change. Led by Prime Minister Mottley, you are critical leaders in this struggle—a fight we must confront together with the fierce urgency of now.” The day was a poignant reminder of Barbados’ journey, its triumphs over adversity, and its aspirations for a thriving future.
