Has time change? Has the system change? These questions are still relevant to the United Kingdom and by extension the Caribbean. I have been searching for answers to these questions since the Windrush generation scandal captured public outcry. I am also trying to understand the mindset of those enacting these policies and the future complication that they may bring. Some of the likely scenarios to play out are quite disturbing but inevitable as economic realities kicks in. I try not to get to tied down in the emotional, racial and social chaos that's at play but look economic data coming from the United Kingdom and the Caribbean. What bothers me the most for the Caribbean man/woman, our cushion is rather thin as Nationalism, Protectionism and hostile immigration policies take effect. The assertiveness of our leaders to plan in advance and provide hope is absent. The history of the Caribbean is rather sad, in fact very sad, we were slaves then and our economic realities would make us slaves to come. Its rather strange or probably convenient that the Post-Brexit plans of the United Kingdom is to spread her influence throughout the Commonwealth. Our history with the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, France, Spain and United States America is well documented but conveniently ignored. For example, here is the part of the Windrush story.
One of the Caribbean icon or better term, "world-icon" told the story of the Caribbean man/woman in his song "Buffalo Soldier".
Fast-forward 2018, the Caribbean man/woman finds themselves in a tricky position. Probably a more accurate description, "used and abused" and then discarded. It was a disturbing moment for me personally when Haiti was referred to as a "shithole" country by the President of United States of America. I fancy Trump but I cannot pardon such statements because during America struggle for her Independence, Haitians were the first to stand by her side. Haiti despite economic woes holds a special place in the heart of the Caribbean, North America and South America as it was a symbol of Revolution and Independence. Nonetheless, Haitians are treated as badly in the USA and they are treated by their Caribbean neighbors. What I did not understand then, I understand now, the Anatomy of the system has us programmed to ensure that they pay for their rebellion.
Many in the Caribbean suffer from an identity crisis. It a serious and f... problem. Some identify with Africa, an call themselves Africans, some identify with India, an call themselves East Indians. For me, all rubbish. I have had the opportunity to travel and interact and the Africans and Indians despise us, in particular, the Africans refer the region as 'children of the slaves'. For me the concept of "One Love" seems like a fantasy and desire to find my heritage remains a mystery. The sad part of the Africa narrative and reality, it was only Muammar Gaddafi who recognized the Caribbean and its people as his brothers and sisters and wanted to region to join his vision of a United States of Africa. This is a another story and one I would write about in the future but lets keep focus on the topic at hand.
When the varying islands went for independence from the respective colonial mother, it was a jubilant time, for the first time these people were given the taste of governance. Note I used the word governance and not independence. Things were rather good for many of these islands, debt was not a concern and traditional economic activities were vibrant. Agriculture was the heart of most of these economies and the Caribbean enjoyed preferential treatment on the European market for its Goods and Service. All of these islands were known for something whether it be Nutmeg, Banana, livestocks, etc. It is important to note that sugar and cotton was already under water and no longer profitable for these colonial masters. In fact, maintaining these islands were a headache for these colonial masters as rebellion and uprising were widespread. This ambition pave the way for independence and their respective leaders went to the colonial power in search of independence or better put dependence from their colonial master.