The Barbados Landship Association commemorated its 162nd anniversary with a vibrant church service at St Mary’s Church, blending reverence for its rich history with a forward-looking emphasis on youth involvement. Under the theme ‘Moving Upstream Still,’ the event highlighted the crucial role of young people in preserving and rejuvenating this quintessentially Barbadian cultural institution. Wayne Worrrell, coordinator of the Barbados Landship Programme, paid tribute to stalwarts like Admiral Vernon Watson and Commander Leon Marshall, whose unwavering commitment has sustained the organization. He underscored the significance of generational continuity, stating, ‘Over the past few years, we’ve worked tirelessly to ensure the Landship remains accessible to a new generation of youth. Without these dedicated individuals, we would have had nothing to build upon.’ The celebrations saw members of the Barbados Landship Association parade to Jubilee Gardens, joined by a robust contingent from the Barbados Youth Advance Corps (BYAC). Worrrell expressed gratitude to the BYAC, saying, ‘Thank you for always showing up and representing.’ Canon Sonia Hinds, officiating minister and chaplain of the Barbados Landship Association, lauded the youth’s participation, remarking, ‘These are the young people we believe, through God, will carry the Barbados Landship Association forward for the next 15 years and beyond.’ The event culminated in a display of the Landship’s signature maneuvers at Jubilee Gardens, symbolizing both tradition and renewal. Canon Hinds added, ‘We are thrilled that instead of staying home with tablets and cellphones, you are here worshipping and giving thanks for 162 years of the Barbados Landship.’
分类： society
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OPINION: Independence Minus Justice?
The Caribbean’s justice system remains deeply entrenched in colonial practices, raising concerns about its fairness and relevance in modern society. Despite a single reform decades ago, the region continues to operate under outdated laws originally imposed by British colonizers—laws that even the United Kingdom has long abandoned. A critical issue is the lack of judicial discretion, which undermines the fairness of verdicts. Additionally, the elitism embedded in the legal profession perpetuates inequality, with courts often displaying contempt rather than empathy for the poor and marginalized. The formal attire and intimidating courtroom settings further alienate ordinary citizens, reinforcing a system that appears more concerned with maintaining authority than delivering justice. While some superficial changes, such as the removal of traditional wigs, have been made, the overall structure remains imperious and disconnected from the people it serves. Unlike other former colonies, such as African nations and India, which have integrated traditional justice systems, the Caribbean remains tethered to foreign legal frameworks. This dependence on colonial-era laws raises questions about the region’s true independence, particularly when key governmental institutions still swear allegiance to foreign powers. Resistance to adopting the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) as the apex court highlights the persistence of outdated political dynamics that favor the elite at the expense of the poor. The executive branch’s control over court registries and administrative systems further erodes trust in the judiciary, turning justice into a tool for those in power. The absence of a justice system that reflects the region’s cultural identity and addresses poverty and colonialism underscores the urgent need for a revolutionary overhaul. Lawyers and judges must strive to create an independent judiciary that resonates with the Caribbean’s people, using accessible language and attire that fosters inclusivity rather than intimidation. The pompous remnants of colonial rule must be dismantled to build a justice system that truly serves the people.
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Saint Lucian selected for prestigious UN human rights fellowship
The National Community Foundation (NCF) has proudly announced that its Executive Director, Vanya Reid-Hinkson, has been chosen to participate in the United Nations Fellowship Programme for People of African Descent. Hosted by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Geneva, this prestigious program aims to empower emerging leaders of African descent by fostering human rights, equality, and sustainable development. Reid-Hinkson is one of only nine global fellows selected for the 2025 cohort and one of two representatives from the Caribbean, alongside a colleague from Jamaica, a nation currently recovering from a catastrophic hurricane. Their selection underscores the Caribbean’s resilience and dedication to advancing equitable development, inclusion, and social justice. The three-week intensive program in Geneva will enable fellows to engage with international experts, organizations, and missions while developing projects tailored to their countries’ needs. Reid-Hinkson’s focus will be on enhancing human rights education, community empowerment, and policy accountability, aligning with Saint Lucia’s development goals. Her leadership at the NCF has already driven initiatives improving access to healthcare, education, housing, and social assistance, empowering vulnerable groups. This fellowship highlights Saint Lucia’s growing role in global human rights and development frameworks, as well as the critical contributions of civil society. Reid-Hinkson expressed her gratitude, stating, ‘This fellowship is both an honour and a responsibility. It allows me to represent Saint Lucia and the Caribbean in global discussions on equality and human development. The insights gained will strengthen our efforts to address community needs with fairness and accountability.’ The NCF sees this as a pivotal opportunity to bolster partnerships with government, civil society, and the private sector, reinforcing its commitment to dignity, equity, and inclusion as cornerstones of sustainable development.
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STATEMENT: Miss WÒB 2025 — A heartfelt thank you and a note on Independence day
In a heartfelt message, ZebadiJah Maxwell, crowned as the 2025 Miss WÒB, expressed her gratitude and shared the significance of her recent achievements. Addressing her community, she acknowledged the unwavering support of her family, friends, and the broader public, which she described as her greatest strength. Maxwell emphasized that her title is not just a personal honor but a shared triumph for everyone who believed in her.
As Dominica celebrated its Independence Day, Maxwell extended her sincere apologies for her absence from the national festivities, including the Military Parade. She highlighted the importance of these events in the nation’s history and expressed regret for not being physically present. However, her absence was driven by a purposeful commitment: representing Dominica at the One Young World Summit, a prestigious global gathering of young leaders dedicated to fostering positive change.
At the summit, Maxwell is actively engaging in critical discussions, advocating for causes she is passionate about, and amplifying the voices of Dominica’s youth on the international stage. She pledged to return home with renewed energy, innovative ideas, and a stronger resolve to serve her community not just in title but through meaningful action.
Concluding her message, Maxwell reiterated her gratitude, emphasizing that her crown symbolizes collective achievement and unity. She signed off with a message of love and unity, reinforcing her commitment to her role as a leader and advocate.
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Nation unites
In response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, the Jamaican Government has initiated a comprehensive recovery plan, including the establishment of a National Registry of Volunteers and a series of international fundraising concerts. The initiative aims to raise an initial US$1 million to support relief efforts and rebuild affected communities. Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment, and Sport Olivia Grange announced these measures during a special media briefing at Jamaica House, emphasizing the importance of unity and collective action in overcoming the crisis. The National Registry of Volunteers, accessible via the Support Jamaica portal (supportjamaica.gov.jm), provides a streamlined platform for individuals to offer their skills and time in areas such as food distribution, medical support, and clean-up activities. Grange urged Jamaicans at home and abroad to participate, highlighting the need for a coordinated and efficient response. Additionally, former Prime Ministers PJ Patterson and Bruce Golding, along with former Political Ombudsman Bishop Herro Blair, have been enlisted to assist in the recovery efforts. Blair will coordinate the involvement of religious and faith-based organizations, which have historically played a crucial role in times of crisis. To further bolster resources, the Government has partnered with the entertainment industry to organize the ‘I Love Jamaica’ concert series, featuring performances by leading Jamaican artists in venues across Jamaica, the United States, and the United Kingdom. The series will kick off with a virtual concert and telethon on November 16, followed by events in London, Miami, and other cities. Grange also revealed that the Caribbean Premier League and former cricketer Chris Gayle will contribute to the fundraising campaign. The Reggae Boyz vs Curacao FIFA World Cup qualifier on November 18 will serve as another platform for donations, with the Jamaica Football Federation and Red Cross Jamaica coordinating the effort. Grange expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from various sectors, reiterating that Jamaica will emerge stronger from this unprecedented disaster.
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Christopher Martin Foundation brings hope to children affected by Hurricane Melissa
In a heartwarming collaboration, the Christopher Martin Foundation joined forces with the Bright Beginnings Charity Group to launch the “Bringing Hope” initiative, providing critical relief and emotional support to children impacted by Hurricane Melissa. The effort, spearheaded by Campion College students Kris-Sarai Martin and Anna-Lyssa Cooke, reached over 200 children aged 10 to 16 in Trelawny communities such as Zion and Kinloss, as well as those sheltering at Holland High and William Knibb High Schools. Volunteers and corporate sponsors distributed more than 300 care packages filled with hygiene kits, snacks, clothing, and comfort items, alongside hot meals, water, phone charging stations, and basic medical care. International reggae and dancehall artist Christopher Martin, founder of the eponymous foundation, expressed his deep sorrow over the hurricane’s devastation, emphasizing the importance of supporting vulnerable children. He commended the student founders for their leadership and compassion, calling them a beacon of hope for Jamaica’s youth. The foundation also extended gratitude to key contributors, including Hyundai Jamaica, Digicel Jamaica, Wisynco Group Limited, Big Yard Studios, and Tango Entertainment. As part of broader recovery efforts, Martin is set to headline the Hurricane Melissa Virtual Concert and Telethon on November 16, aiming to raise US$1 million for disaster relief and rebuilding. The event, part of the “I Love Jamaica” series, underscores the foundation’s commitment to empowering youth and uplifting communities.
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Several blocked roads cleared to restore access to communities
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Significant progress has been made in restoring access to communities severely affected by Hurricane Melissa, according to Robert Morgan, Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development. Speaking at a media conference at Jamaica House on November 3, Morgan highlighted the successful creation of critical corridors to facilitate the delivery of relief supplies, particularly to the western parishes hardest hit by the hurricane.
Morgan detailed the establishment of a primary corridor stretching from the border of St Elizabeth to Savanna-la-Mar, as well as another from St James through St Ann and Trelawny to Savanna-la-Mar. Initially, these routes were single-lane, leading to severe traffic congestion due to the influx of vehicles carrying supplies and aid workers. To address this, the government expanded the corridors to two lanes, significantly improving traffic flow.
The minister also emphasized the importance of ensuring that heavy-duty vehicles, such as gas trucks and oil tankers, could navigate these routes. By November 2, several obstacles had been removed to allow these vehicles to traverse the area safely. Key routes now open include Ocho Rios to Port Antonio, Port Antonio to Morant Bay, Morant Bay to Kingston, and several others connecting major towns across the island.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain, particularly in areas affected by flooding, landslides, and fallen trees. The government is collaborating with the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) to address these issues, with daily meetings to coordinate the removal or relocation of JPS poles obstructing roadways. Over 100 contractors and equipment operators are working across the region, focusing on critical areas while also addressing challenges in parishes like Portland and St Thomas.
Morgan urged the public to avoid visiting impacted areas unless absolutely necessary, as their presence could hinder ongoing relief efforts. The government continues to prioritize the restoration of infrastructure to support recovery and aid distribution in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.
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JPS told to put electricity grid underground where feasible — Holness
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the Jamaican government has instructed the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) Company to assess the viability of relocating portions of the electricity grid underground. Prime Minister Andrew Holness announced this initiative during a session in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, emphasizing the need for resilience in the power infrastructure.
Holness highlighted specific areas, including Montego Bay’s Elegant Corridor and Hip Strip, as priority zones for this underground project. These regions, central to Jamaica’s tourism industry, sustained significant damage during the hurricane. While acknowledging the high costs associated with underground infrastructure, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of balancing expenses with the need for a robust and resilient grid.
In parallel, the government has prioritized power restoration in critical facilities such as hospitals, water plants, and communication hubs, as well as densely populated residential areas. Holness noted that the ‘all clear for restoration of utility services’ has enabled JPS and independent contractors to mobilize extensively. The Ministry of Energy is overseeing grid stabilization efforts and addressing localized issues, including low voltage on restored feeders.
The Prime Minister assured the public that the government is providing strategic guidance to JPS, focusing on restoring large commercial and urban centers alongside essential public services. He also pledged to keep citizens informed about the progress of re-energization efforts across parishes as the network undergoes repairs and reconstruction.
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Homeless, hungry and trapped
In a heartfelt and emotional plea, Nekeisha Burchell, Member of Parliament for St James Southern and a representative of the Opposition People’s National Party, called for immediate relief assistance for her constituents devastated by Hurricane Melissa. Speaking at a press conference held at the party’s Old Hope Road Headquarters, Burchell highlighted the dire situation faced by the majority of her constituents, who are homeless, hungry, and trapped in their communities amidst the carcasses of their livestock.
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Uber, Jamaican Red Cross, and International Medical Corps to support Melissa relief efforts
KINGSTON, Jamaica—In a significant humanitarian initiative, Uber, the global transportation giant, has teamed up with the Jamaican Red Cross and the International Medical Corps to bolster emergency response and relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. The collaboration aims to address critical mobility needs and ensure swift aid delivery to affected communities.