May 18th, 2008 is celebrated by Haiti as its Flag Day.
The meaning of Flag Day for Haitians and those of Haitian descent appear to have a very special meaning, even for those residing in other countries throughout the world where they have migrated to.
On May 18th Haitians throughout the Bahamas, legal or illegal as well as those who label themselves as a “Haitian Bahamian”, adorn their vehicles and Jitney buses throughout the islands of the Bahamas in particular the island of New Providence, and displayed “their” Haitian national pride.
Having studied Caribbean history and the subject matter, as a Bahamian, it is with pride that I recognize the meaning and the purpose of the May 18th Haitian Flag Day celebration and respect it’s meaning the same. It is a reminder of the struggles and freedoms as Haitian people valiantly fought for their freedom and ultimate victory over the three (3) greatest military powers in the world at that time (England, France and Spain). So Haitian Flag Day becomes a celebration of the Haitian revolution, and they are to be nobly commended for such a display of national pride, even when their country is experiencing extreme difficulties.
Unfortunately in the Bahamas today, it appears that the Haitian Flag Day has taken on another meaning in a different country, in a different century, with an insidious tone, but with an undermining motive and not the intent of the past.
It appears to be a celebration of another nation being born within the Bahamas, in “the face” of Bahamians in their very own country, the Bahamas.
Haiti’s contributions too many in a free black society throughout the world are known. Haitians residing in the Bahamas and other countries must realize it is not what you do to celebrate your culture or your national pride, but is how you do it in another man’s land. Whatever the underlying message is behind your celebration today, it would be better if you share its history and meaning so that others will learn about it, understand it, and not get offended by your actions, especially when you indiscriminately change your last name to sound like the English surnames that dominate the Bahamas, or call yourself a Bahamian when it’s convenient for you to get employed, especially in a Bahamian Government Department.
Without prejudice, I have observed many neighboring nations in the Caribbean more frequently have discounted the intellect and aptitude of Bahamian people for what ever reason. I must enlighten them to the facts that Bahamians can articulate, read and understand when they are being disrespected in their own country, or undermined the like by nefarious schemes.
Like we often say in the Bahamas, “You don’t know me hey”? So, “don’t sleep on me”.
The Bahamian people know that all governments of the Bahamas, past and present, have failed and are failing them when it comes to the illegal immigration issue in this country, no matter what nationality is broking the immigration laws of the Bahamas. Our efforts continue to FAIL because of corrupt Bahamians both “black and white” who will sell their country for one dollar.
The intent of the Haitian Flag Day should be an example of many nations who have struggled for freedom. It should not be a symbol of disrespect. It should not be used to demonstrate how many of your citizens are present and exist in the Bahamas, whether by illegally being born here, or illegally migrating here with blatant disrespect for the laws, or simply using the system and its people by the Machiavellian approach.
If you feel so strong about your Haitian Flag Day, you should simply go back to Haiti on your own, and celebrate it where it belongs. This is still and will remain the Bahamas. The United States close their embassy and celebrate their national events at their Ambassadors residence; they also invite many Bahamians Government officials to participate. Maybe this action, and protocol, should be considered and adopted by the organizers of Haitian Flag Day in the Bahamas. It would be more respectful to the citizens of the Bahamas and would not appear to have a subterfuge motive.
With full knowledge of your provocative action on May 18th, The Bahamas continue to cope with many of Haiti’s citizens by granting them a free education in our schools at the expense of the Bahamian tax payers. The abuse of the many government systems continue, squatting at will, and blatant abuse of our health care system, with the majority of Haitian migrants making no contributions to National Insurance.
The Catholic Church, who has for many years aided this situation, may want to reconsider how it is assisting the immigration process that is changing the face of our nation through its subtle, but extremely powerful influence and programs.
“Through Unity, we find strength” (L’Union Fait La Force) is the famous phrase on Haiti’s flag, which on February 25th, 1986, after the fall of Baby Doc and the Duvalier regime, was requested back by the people. It is my hope through information sharing, and education we can foster a better understanding of other nations, and would have greater respect and regard for each others country and their national events.
Blatant disrespect for another country and its citizens, that allowed you to live a better life from where you or your parent/s came from, or assist you in your migratory movement to other countries of your dream, will eventually be met with ultimate resistance and eventual bloodshed.
I urge all who participate in Haiti’s Flag Day to do it respectfully and to encourage others to join you in celebrating its real meaning if they so desire. The International Food Fair held at the Ardastra Gardens is an event where you can experience and learn of so many cultures with respect. You can go around the world without having to buy a plane ticket.
On the Bahamas Coat of Arms, our motto is “Forward, Upward, Onward, Together”.
We are all in this country by the grace of God, so I would urge people of all nations calling the Bahamas their home, to respect its people and its culture.
Anthony U Bostwick Jr.
May 2008
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With full knowledge of your provocative action on May 18th, The Bahamas continue to cope with many of Haiti’s citizens by granting them a free education in our schools at the expense of the Bahamian tax payers. The abuse of the many government systems continue, squatting at will, and blatant abuse of our health care system, with the majority of Haitian migrants making no contributions to National Insurance.
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