2007 befaith Runner Up ...

ANDRE JACKSON

André’s inaugural role as Othello with the Wichita Shakespeare Company would mark the beginning of an award-winning career for this young actor often nicknamed “the next Denzel” by fellow cast mates. Following his critically acclaimed performance, André continued to make his mark as a student accepted to the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts. As the first freshman in the school’s history cast in a graduate company production, André’s instructors at the academy encouraged him to forego his second year and immediately begin his professional acting career.

Within months of leaving the academy André landed his first professional role in the award-winning Los Angeles run of The Scottsboro Boys, for which he received the Los Angeles Drama Critic’s Circle Award for Best Actor. His work also helped the play garner the Los Angeles Drama Critic’s Award for Best Ensemble Cast and the LA Weekly Theatre Award for Best Ensemble Cast. That stellar performance was soon followed by a lead role in Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, which would go on to win the LA Ovation Award for Best Production and the NAACP Theatre Award for Best Ensemble Cast.

In addition to his work in theater André also has a fledgling career in television and film. He has been seen on The Bold and the Beautiful and cast in numerous independent films, including Brooklyn’s Bridge to Jordan, a multiple award winning film prominently featured in festivals throughout the United States. André is now winning rave reviews in his portrayal of “Simba” on the U.S. national tour of Disney’s award-winning musical The Lion King.

Visiting the Village

In retrospect, it was the inadequate national celebrations of the 200th Anniversary of the abolition of the Trans Atlantic Slave Trade which stands out as the greatest disappointment for me for 2007 (yes the outcome of the General Elections was equally as disappointing). But I think we squandered the opportunity to share with our youth, the significance of this milestone, and we lost out on a chance to have wholesome discussions on that moment as a gift from a liberating God, which was a turning point for Western civilization, and of particular importance to the African Diaspora. Two great truths could have been revisited as clues to the seeming breakdown of our Bahamian communities and most predominately Black societies – that Black Africans sold Black Africans into slavery, and that it holds true for descendants of Africa that it still takes a village to raise a child.

I have deliberately pointed out without pointing fingers (because we are all in this thing together), some of the dysfunctions of our people, especially those which affect us politically over the course of the past few weeks so I give them no special place during this Season. It is the significance of the “Village” which captures my heart and attention, and will be my focus should I live to see the New Year. This idea of the nuclear family as the root of our problems and solutions may not be as well thought out as we think. The developmental journey of the family structure in The Bahamas has always been one of intrigue. The “village”, extended family, and a network of key institutions (like church, the junkanoo shack, and school) have always had to help overcome the impact of rampant sweet-hearting, single parent children and those once taboo, teenage pregnancies. So many of us now however have tried to cling to the American facade of success which includes this concept of husband and wife, two point five (2.5) children and the family pet, oh yes all in a nice house with a white picket fence. This has been to our detriment as these nuclear units have been so selfishly insular in their functioning that they may have contributed in a round about way to the deterioration of supposedly interwoven communities.

Christmas for me this year ironically, involves a process of letting go of two very special members of my “Village” – non biologically related Bahamians who didn’t have to help raise me but they did, and how I thank God for them. The first is from the community of West End where almost every adult had the right as well as responsibility to love me, even scold me as a child. Although she married my Daddy’s second cousin, Austin Grant, and was one of my Mother’s closest friends (as they were both duty paid imports to West End) Mrs. Ann Grant or “Aunt Ann” as I called her was a special part of my childhood. You see, my brother and I had to walk home from kindergarten school to my Grandmother’s house as children in West End. On our trek we passed whom I refer to as the seven business matriarchs of West End – Ms. Doompey (matriarch of Johnson’s business), Sister Lilly (Hollingsworth bakery), Ms. Miriam from Butler and Sands, Aunt Ann from the STAR Hotel, Mable Colton had a take-out, then Ms. Mearle and Ms. Gregs (short for Degregory) had neighboring convenience stores. My brother and I enjoyed a special privilege on that long walk to Grandma’s however. We were the only two children often allowed in the Star as Aunt Ann if she saw us passing, was always good for a can of Canada Dry Ginger-Ale, to share between the two of us. Throughout our lives she always found a way to make us feel especially loved. God rest her soul.

The second, who is harder for me to let go, found me in my late teens but our politics caused us to attend the funeral of the late Sir Lynden Pindling together as well as a few PLP Conventions. She was not my peer and therefore I question whether I have the privilege of calling her friend, while I know I have no given right to call her Grandma or “Mama” as Biminites would say. But Mammy Syl, Sylvia Bain of Bimini assumed an unconditional loving role in my life, although we found each other late – she would fix my favorite, corn pudding whenever I went to Bimini, she pinned my clothes during wardrobe malfunctions while in hotels in Nassau, we hung out at an after convention Party one night in Nassau until the wee hours of the morning, she showed me off to her friends whenever I delivered a moving speech or popped up on her television screen during my almost first round of frontline politics, and all of my friends know the story of how she sat me down one day and made me promise to give up Gin, at a time when alcohol was such a challenge for me to overcome. I have kept that promise and her intervention in my life eventually has led to a very controlled relationship with Al (alcohol) notwithstanding the occasional glass of red wine or a cold Kalik. For all this and more I thank her, and although sadly difficult, I release her so that she may enjoy her eternal rest in the arms of The One who loves her best.

Twelve years ago, I buried my biological father, Moses Hall, one week before Christmas so I know the potential impact of loss/death on what should be a yuletide season. Enough time has passed however for me to have learned and now share that grieving over the ones gone should not take away from Christmas as being a time of celebrating life with our loved ones who remain. What I also know for sure, as Oprah might say, is that stepping outside of home and returning to the ideal of “Village” opens a world of opportunities, rights, and responsibilities to give, receive, and share in the magic and boundless mystery of love – and God is love. If not friends or family, let us be “village” then - we may end up raising our next generation in the process. Happy Holidays!

Paradox

Double mindedness is certainly causing a great degree of instability in this Country. On one hand, as a people we say we want peace in our homes and on our streets, we all on some level hope for a bright future for the next generation, and although probably unconscious to many, we are all yearning for the kind of leadership, civic, religious, political, that would move us once more to a collective sense of purpose and renewed patriotism. Yet on the other hand, we revere those things that do not in the least benefit these noble longings, rendering our behavior paradoxical at times.

We like “beating the system” whether that means getting away without paying adequate customs duty or receiving proceeds from illegal activity. We are also more attracted to those things that do not make for peace: confrontation, “sassy-ness” of mouth and spirit, and the condition of “not letting anyone run over us.” And we prefer style over substance any day when it comes to leadership personalities. These are the things which so many of us have been tricked into believing represents strength, when in actuality they are in direct contradiction to the characteristics and philosophies needed to move our Country forward.

When the Free National Movement assumed Government in 1992 its first order of business was to finish off what it started during its election campaign. It wasn’t enough to vilify/demonize, humiliate, and defeat Sir Lynden and the Progressive Liberal Party. So just after top hat and scissor tails came off, after the pageantry of swearing in, that FNM Government led by the Rt. Hon. Hubert Ingraham launched a multi-million dollar Commission of Inquiry. It was an exercise which at the end of the day proved nothing. However, it consolidated the pervasive idea that the “Father” of the modern Bahamas and his team were gangsters from hell who did nothing good for their Country. And, it sealed the notion that Government and politics in The Bahamas is for the wicked few – fueling the apathy and self hatred of our youth whose potential heroes were transformed in a matter of days into public enemies.

Life holds no sanctity in the eyes of so many of our young sons because politicians whether out of anger, pain or revenge, tore away the decency and honor of good men, their perceived enemies. We entered and possibly lost this battle against violence “spiritually” some time ago, when internal and external powerful forces with lots of money, found the formula to encourage un-reconciled men to put personal un-forgiveness above the patriotic duty of upholding the beauty and legacy of the foundation of our people. Our children then only know the stories of treachery, deceit and failure which have been sung louder than the songs of victory, pride, unity, and “how we got over!” And so, our young sons pull real triggers in this new age because they have been socialized in an atmosphere where their Governmental leaders set the tone and engaged in a kind of violence which assassinated/murdered the character and spirit of heroes, and by extension wiped out a meaningful and inspirational part of modern Bahamian heritage.

For the past few weeks in the House of Assembly, through the debate on the Appropriation Bills, some members of this new FNM Government in true FNM fashion, sought to engage in the same kind of senseless violence perpetrated against the Bahamian spirit through the Commission of Inquiry. Thankfully, the Christie led PLP held good ground and very little damage, if any was done. But in an age where we are almost in a state of crisis as a people with even an economy which recently has lost its “equilibrium” we need a Government that will take a time out from playing destructive politics and by action, not words, lead us into a state of peace, reconciliation, ingenuity, and purpose. This is no time for double-mindedness – we cannot speak of peace while allowing our behavior to breed discord. We must see and work towards ending the paradox.

Getting Back To The Future

When you speak with senior Progressive Liberal Party Stalwart Councilors or persons who were eligible to vote for the PLP in the 1962 General Elections, repeatedly you will hear that the PLP’s loss in that Election was perhaps the most devastating of all time. So many of them were certain that the “Movement” which had begun in 1953, and really transcended partisan politics, would have proven successful in that not so fateful year. Notwithstanding the disappointment, there was a greater victory for all Bahamians despite that PLP loss. Not only was it the first time that all sane men 21 and over, irrespective of race and class, could exercise the right to vote but forty-five years ago, 45 short years ago, women finally got the right to vote in this Country, and vote they did in 1962.

Fittingly, the person who appeared on the Love 97/ JCN TV programme Jones and Company, at the beginning of what is embraced as National Women’s Week, was first female deputy leader of a major political party, and first female Deputy Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, PLP Deputy Leader, Cynthia “Mother” Pratt. Amidst all that was educational and even controversial about what was said during the interview, was a response by “Mother” to a question put by Mr. Jones with respect to the way forward for our Country. In no uncertain terms, The Hon. Mother Pratt, a former Nurse, Educator and presently a Minister of the Gospel in addition to her political duties made it clear that we needed to “go back” before we move forward. She insists that as a people we must go back to the basic principles of respect, love, and though increasingly unpopular in a political context, the “fear” of God.

If you didn’t know any better, you could quite easily be persuaded to believe that the progress of this small developing Island Nation is hinged first and foremost on matters of economics, foreign relations, and infrastructure – only. These after all are areas in which solutions are readily available via the history bank of what other countries have done before. And so where it is difficult to dream and have vision in these areas, copying at least sustains us in our pre renaissance state. However, there exists no readily available formula to tell us how to resolve the problems in the area of that which this Nation’s future is truly hinged upon, the “soul of Black folk” (to borrow from W. E. Dubois). Or is there?

Nestled beneath the facts of the modern political history of our Country, and by extension, the early history of the PLP, rest the stuff which once overcame the darkness of a seemingly impossible era of our time. Through it universal suffrage was achieved, as a crowning constitutional victory in what had been a trying struggle on the battle ground of our Parliament. But where all of these victories fell short, there stepped in, the will of a last minute but convicted people who went on to secure Majority Rule, Independence, 34 years of sustainable development, and continued parliamentary democracy. It was the love of Country, respect of self and others, and inspiration that comes only from God which awakened in our people the wherewithal to secure the future of the next generation. As broken as it was, and apathetic because of centuries long denial of fundamental rights and freedoms, and even harsher realities, it was the soul of Black Folk when challenged which overcame, centuries old injustices, White men, their money and their accepted inherent right to control the coffers of this Country. And there in the midst all the while was an ordained man of God, Rev. Harcourt W. Brown, preaching always, the power of those things basic – Respect, Love, God.

We know that it worked then. Like "Mother" Pratt, I can only admonish that we all return to those principles and get back to the business of our future. The next generation is counting on us.

My Brother, Kevin Speaks ...

My family and I have been residing in London for the past 9 years now, and during that time my wife and I have become avid readers of the various Bahamian newspaper and political websites. These sites are a godsend when it comes to keeping abreast of current events when you’re so far away from home (I hope this latter comment is taken as a strong hint by the current editors and publishers of the few remaining Bahamian news and current event publications that have yet to embrace the internet). It is very seldom that a Sunday evening passes without my wife or me visiting the Bahamasuncensored.com website to keep abreast of what’s going on back home. As a result I would classify both my wife and myself as regular readers of the contents of your website.

I am sometimes astounded by the things that remind me how much I miss being away from the Bahamas. Of course there are the obvious things like the cold weather, the dark and dreary winter days and the way the English speak. But then there are subtle things as well. For example, a few days ago I found myself longing for home because I had an urge for some chicken souse with a slice or two of johnny cake on the side.

There I was roaming the streets of central London during my lunch break, wishing that I could find a restaurant that served Bahamian food (no luck of course). As usual this made me think of all the other things, as well as all the friends and family I missed being so far away from home. It also made me recall a previous article that was posted on this site a long while ago (before the penultimate elections), where the author was questioning whether it was appropriate for the then (and current) prime minister, Mr Ingraham, to either use his hands and/or suck the bones whilst eating some chicken souse at a public function he was attending.

I also recall a few of your more recent articles where you have commented on Mr Ingraham’s behaviour during parliamentary debates. I believe you described his behaviour as being “…boorish.”

I am originally from West End, in Grand Bahama. My now deceased father was once a PLP member of parliament, and like the majority of people in that community I also consider myself to be a PLP at heart. Having said that, I hope that I am not in a majority of one when I say that I believe that we (the PLP party) do ourselves no favour when we try to focus the attention of the public on the perceived shortcomings of Mr Ingraham and his colleagues. As individuals I am certain that there is more to be desired from our (PLP) politicians as well; no one is perfect. However, rather than drawing attention to individual imperfections our politicians should be concerned with drawing attention to the imperfections that seem to be pulling our society apart. Our politicians must be seen to rise above the constant bickering and name calling that seems to have become the status quo in the houses of parliament. They must remain focused on drawing attention to, and seeking solutions for, some of the more pressing concerns of the Bahamian public; issues such as increasing crime and unemployment rates, the medium to long-term implications associated with the increasing numbers of young adults who finish high school each year without acquiring basic math and english skills, the increasing cost of home ownership, etc.

Our politicians should be using every opportunity available to them to make the public MORE aware of the PLP’s plans for tackling some of these issues. Rather than moaning about the prime minister’s behaviour, or that of some of his colleagues, they should remind their parliamentary colleagues that they are all there to carry out the business of the Bahamian people. The PLP party could also hold regular public forums where these issues are discussed with the general public and experts. Our politicians should never allow themselves to be drawn into a shouting match with Mr Ingraham and his colleagues – that is not what we elected them for.

My wife and I left the Bahamas because our first child was born with disabilities that could not be treated at home, and for which we could not afford the cost of medical treatment in America. Even though we would never wish our fate on anyone else, we consider ourselves fortunate. This is because there was an option available to us that allows our daughter to receive the medical care and special education support she requires. This is not the case for many other Bahamian parents, and other Bahamians with loved ones requiring specialist medical care. Some of these Bahamians have to resort to selling tickets for plates of food, or simply begging for financial assistance to defray the cost of their medical expenses. This should not be happening in the Bahamas in 2007, but we all know of someone forced into this position.

There are so many Bahamians today who are terrified of becoming the next victim of robbery, or rape or murder. There are too many of our younger Bahamians becoming victims of crime and poor judgement. Too many of us have lost hope in the younger generation. We stand on the sidelines and watch as so many young Bahamians fall victim to the evils of materialism and succumb to the belief that it is their divine right to obtain a material possession by any means necessary, with the exceptions being honesty and hard work.

It seems that most days when I log onto one of the Bahamian newspaper websites there is usually some headline about another robbery, or incest or murder. This seems to have become such a common event that if I decide to visit one of these websites whilst I’m at work, I will minimise the webpage as small as possible beforehand, so none of my colleagues will be able to see any of these appalling headlines. I am thousands of miles away from home, but still very ashamed and scared about what seems to be happening at home.

I really believe that the PLP party has an opportunity to prove to the Bahamian public that they should be given another opportunity to govern. There are too many Bahamians, both home and abroad, who are tired of the political bickering. We are all hoping that our leaders can develop and implement viable solutions to some of the problems in our country. Now if only someone can help me figure out how I can arrange for my mom to send me some chicken souse or boiled fish by post!

Kevin Hall

Giving Thanks

It seems that heart-breaking, sorrowful and dreadful events are given a certain preeminence in our lives, whether in the media or our memory banks. The tenor of our Country for example skews more toward the feelings associated with all the present negatives of our communities – violence and violent crime, political polarization and disharmony, the delinquency of so many of our youth, and not to mention, the uncertainty of the performance of an economy that to date has gone un-mastered and with respect to Bahamians, generally un-owned. And so we find ourselves overwhelmed by the accompanying statistics, 70 or so murders, a high percentage of AIDS infection, an overall failing grade in our schools, leaders with conflicting solutions, and the list goes on and on.

It is this preoccupation with our shortcomings, disappointments, differences, and fears, I believe that has stifled us in our creative and innovative expressions as a people. There is no doubt that Bahamians are a peculiar people, full of amazing potential, and survivors by design. Wherever we seriously apply our talents, we succeed, on the world stage. Yet while we have exhibited this to some degree in the Arts and in Sports, we haven’t really given our World any major discoveries, inventions or scientific and technological advances. I recall that a Bahamian woman once designed a shoe that can be worn several ways but there are no inventions to date from this Country, equivalent to the significance of the light bulb or the airplane, and there certainly is no Space program that will eventually lead to a conch-shell from our waters, landing on the moon.

A major part of the challenge of our going from ordinary to extraordinary, from Third World to First World rests in our ability to come alive, to unlock our very natural creative wizardry, and redirect the explosive energies of our youth. There is so much emphasis on the amenities, privileges, and systemic efficiencies that make for a First World quality of life, and these all have their places. However, none rivals the importance of the development of our human capital, without which, those tangibles cannot be sustained or advanced.

Ours is a Country largely of imitation and imports. From our language and educational curriculum, to our electronics and automobiles, to our judicial and parliamentary procedures, to the clothes we wear and the things that entertain us most, we are not our own. We have yet to find the will and formula to produce enough from our land and waters to feed ourselves. So the question begs, “Who are we, where are we, and where do we go from here?”

The starting point to adopting solutions, and reversing these unfortunate truths, is a shift in perspective and attitude. Gratitude, believe it or not, carries much of the secrets to inspiring a people to excel. When we become grateful for the journey thus far, proud of being Bahamian, whatever that turns out to be, and mindful of the large and small blessings so prevalent among us in our daily lives, then and only then will we start to become the kind of citizens, World citizens we are destined to be. Because the ultimate truth is that, notwithstanding all that is lacking and must be achieved, we are a “glass” more full than empty.

We are alive, over three hundred thousand strong. Our young are more in numbers, productive than the few destructive. We have the right to speak our minds, vote, and worship God without the fear of incarceration, torture or death. And history serves as a testament that we have the wherewithal to manipulate our economy sufficiently to always ensure the viability of the next generation. Why? Because the one thing sufficiently innovative about us, and not imported or mimicked, is our hallowed and indomitable spirit. Challenge us to rise and we will!

This Thanksgiving season therefore, I just want to pause and thank our God for being Bahamian. How about you?

Power to the People, Again

Whatever your politics, we must realize that there are two major hurdles threatening the quality of life to be enjoyed by our next generation. The more obvious, that of violence, and particularly violent crime refuses to go unnoticed. Its manifestations stare us all in the face daily, rape, murder, assault, even the inability of our political leaders to get along etc. The second is more illusive, that of positioning the ordinary majority to play a greater role in our economic destiny, as our Country captures the attention of key world players now because of our very unique geographical make up. And though seemingly non-connected, the two depend upon each other because aside from being a Country made up of 700 Islands and over 2000 cays, sitting right next to the United States and serving as the gateway to the Caribbean, historically investors have also been attracted to our peaceful nature and Centuries old commitment to democracy.

To say that the wider World does not have much confidence in Black leadership is inflammatory but on an unspoken and therefore, unproven level, it is true. Aided by historical evidence, many expect us to live in a constant state of confusion and irresponsibility, with our leaders distracted by a very natural propensity to “turn on in each other” and or to “be bought.” You will find that very few people are shocked anymore to read about illegality, AIDS, poverty, corruption or political instability when it comes to Black people, whether in Africa, the Caribbean or “African American” communities.

We in The Bahamas, have our share of problems with respect to these stereotypical behaviors but thankfully, at the moment we can still point to a few, the patriotic, the honest, on both sides of the political divide who have not allowed us to slip totally into that dismal abyss. However, to ensure the kind of success as a Nation, as a people, which we are potentially capable of, notwithstanding those two mammoth challenges before us, perhaps it is fitting for power in its truest form to end up once again, in the hearts of an ordinary majority.

At a time when the symbolism and relevance of Parliament as the sovereign protector of democracy, is being questioned, I couldn’t help but to be reminded of the “people’s power movement” which intensified on Black Tuesday in 1965. Having fought the battle on a constitutional level, having appealed to Great Britain and even the United Nations, and although enjoying some successes, for the PLP, the probability balance of attaining Majority Rule, shifted the day the consciousness of collective power was awakened in our people, the ordinary majority. “The symbol of power in this place is the [Speaker’s] Mace,” Pindling purportedly proclaimed. He went on to say, “Power belongs to the people, and the people are outside.” Needless to say, the Mace was hurled through the window, ended up outside with the people, and the rest as they say, is history.

Forty-one men and women represent us in the Honorable House of Assembly, some of them unfortunately, are not allowed to think for themselves, especially the holder of the Mace, while some of them have fallen into the trappings associated with Black leadership. With the exception of the hand-full who sit in the Upper Chamber, the rest of us are outside. The power to overcome our hurdles and secure a bright future it appears, is still outside of Parliament It is with us, within all of us, that is, if we can find the will and cooperation to achieve it.

Agreeing to Disagree

I am certain, that any day now, some political or journalistic personality will finally announce that Rome was indeed built in one day and further, it was built by one man, the Rt. Hon Hubert Ingraham. This news shall in turn comfort all of my fears and concerns regarding the future of our Country. We will all be able to rest comfortably being led by this larger than life, immortal “fire god” whom, at his earliest convenience will provide the remedy for crime and all of our other social ills; he will inspire our youth to play a greater role in the advancement of an instantly developed Island nation with a burgeoning economy; Long Island, Exuma, Cat Island and San Salvador would have rebounded from the effects of TS turned Hurricane Noel; while the leaders of the World, including Musharraff of Pakistan, will come from far and wide bearing expensive gifts for counsel from our esteemed Prime Minister, that is if Speaker of the House, the Honorable Alvin Smith, would allow.

It is important for me to be silly at this very important moment in our development as a Nation, as a people, if only to prove that a senior journalist and a budding political pundit can publicly disagree on any given subject matter and still remain civil. Like that famed, American comedian Red Skelton once said, "I live by this credo: Have a little laugh at life and look around you for happiness instead of sadness. Laughter has always brought me out of unhappy situations. Even in your darkest moment, you usually can find something to laugh about if you try hard enough." Certainly there is great sadness but also great humor in the attempts by some to mislead the public on the facts surrounding the negotiations of the sale of the Royal Oasis, just as the attempts to mislead us with respect to the preliminary groundwork performed by the former administration on the Economic Partnership Agreement with the European Union negotiations.

At a time when democracy and civility are being violently threatened in the honorable Halls of Parliament, when a life has been tragically lost to the fury of mother-nature, and thousands will find it difficult to sing about the “the first noel” as Christmas will find them worried about how to rebuild their lives and their homes post Hurricane Noel, more of us must cling to the tenets of joy and peace. This is a time of the testing of our humanity and our commitment to the Christian faith. The naked, the thirsty, the hungry, the homeless in our Southern Islands, need us to respond, urgently. Our leaders are all being faced with the great challenge of learning to “speak the truth in love” and when necessary, “turn the other cheek.” And every solution to our social ills lay in the ability of all of us to once again love our neighbors as we love self.

The reality is that Rome was not built in a day. And, the reality is that the responsibility of building a great Bahamas is not in the hands of one or even a few. This Country’s successful future is dependent upon us finding the unity, the togetherness to move forward. This togetherness begins with the acceptance that there are times more often than not, when some will disagree. But we must all now commit to agreeing to disagree, peacefully.

Slow but True!

On whatever side of the political divide one may sit or if even on the fence, one has to admit that the news and pending certainty about the details of the sale of the Royal Oasis is good news. It is yet another achievement time and chance have allowed this Free National Movement administration to take credit for. And yet another reminder to former Prime Minister Perry Christie who worked and worked, stroke recovery and all, to secure the long term economic success of Grand Bahama, that no matter one’s efforts, there is nothing “sure” when it comes to Bahamian politics. I can share with you that Grand Bahama’s future grew near and dear to the heart of the former Prime Minister, who had walked its streets after every ravaging storm, and in each step dreamt a more spectacular quality of life for the people of this Island. The Ginn development in West End, a revitalized Freeport City with a renovated Royal Oasis, and an upscale development near Barbary Beach, was in his mind to become the perfect complement to the shipping and industrial potential of Grand Bahama.

But true progress it is said, is a slow process and Bahamians it seems, these days, lack patience. Five out of six constituencies rejected the Progressive Liberal Party in the May 2, 2007 General Elections. While core FNM supporters remained FNM, and the swing vote went to the highest bidder, many voters had just become apathetic and disillusioned. The people of Grand Bahama, some of whom had seen waves from the sea rise over some twenty feet, could no longer be inspired by promises, they needed action and if not action, at least a workable plan.

Regrettably, the FNM’s Public Relations machinery and big money over shadowed Christie’s dreams, at least for the moment. And, with this the much needed balance of social harmony through restorative programs with economic advancement through spin-off opportunities has been placed on hold for the benefit of the likes of the Hon. Brent Symonette and his kind, who are speedily taking advantage of the big business already being generated through Christie’s “anchor project” scheme. True to form, the Bay Street Boys or the former UBP’s evolved with time and continue to secure their wealth through entrepreneurial endeavors such as real estate, shipping, trade, construction, and banking, to name a few. The DPM himself is said to have interest in companies including, Bahamas Hot Mix, Bahamas Fast Ferries and Commonwealth Bank – three on a long list.

This is no less than what the Progressive Liberal Party intended for more Bahamians – that even if we have not reached that stage where we own large scale developments and hotels, certainly more of us could enjoy the entrepreneurial benefits like the Bay Street Boys. More of us were to go from merely having jobs, being employees, to owning our own businesses and becoming employers. While it is indeed wonderful news about the Royal Oasis, the time has come for us to want more and to develop the patience and patriotism needed to bring these kinds of dreams into fruition. Because, true progress is indeed, a slow process.

Anti-violence as Anti-crime

Crime and or corruption are so entwined with the development of our Country, The Bahamas, that we really cannot seriously ever address it. We have, as biblical language would describe it, “been born in sin and shaped in iniquity.” Aside from the more major instances of ship wrecking, bootlegging and rum running, the drug trade and money laundering, you will find today that even the most sanctimonious among us are on their way to the “satellite man” because their illegal feed has been “hit” or out of necessity, even “Granny” is breaking some traffic laws in Nassau just to make it home. So when the Rt. Hon. Hubert Ingraham says, “Indeed, we need to develop a zero-tolerance level for crime – all crime – including petty crime…” does this mean that as the leader of the Free National Movement and Prime Minister of our Nation, he will see to it that no more votes are procured through the inducement of money and gifts during general elections?

What we can address is violence. The big question we must find the will to ask ourselves is “Why are we all so angry?” I know it to be more important to some members of the Governing Free National Movement to, by all means and any means, lock away as many of our Black fathers, brothers and sons, as opposed to committing more resources to restorative programmes and measures designed to get at the root cause of our societal dysfunctions. But how long before we understand that the violence exhibited by the young frustrated Black youth who finds his power in a gun or knife, is not very different from the violence exhibited by even some of our so-called leaders, whose power is in governmental and ministerial privileges conferred upon them. While it is not illegal to publicly embarrass or change the quality of life of someone by publicly firing them as part of one’s victory speech, and while it is not illegal to steal bread from the mouths of the innocent through victimization, all of these acts of violence contribute to the overall breakdown of our society because someone has inappropriately and mercilessly exercised momentary power over another. And in many cases this has been the behavior of choice because so many of us are naturally so very angry – with life.

Indeed, we need to develop a zero-tolerance level for violence – all violence. It would be better for our Prime Minister to lead the charge in this regard. Its really a losing battle if he does not. Out there in the streets, in our schools even in our homes, it isn’t some proverbial “rabbit” who has the proverbial “gun.” Out here, the guns are real! And just as it is almost impossible to reason with some House of Assembly representative who has abandoned all civility and common decency on a Wednesday afternoon, it is almost impossible to convince our young people to choose kinder, gentler methods of conflict resolution.

The Rt. Hon. Hubert Ingraham however, holds a special power. His style and rough demeanor has resonated with and in so many thousands of angry Bahamians who needed a poster boy for revenge. He can inspire at least 48% of the voting population to choose peace as a way of life by merely telling them to or through leading by example. No better person then to launch a successful national anti-violence as an anti-crime movement, which would capture the words of that most instructive song, “Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.” No doubt ‘Funky D’ or some other artist can do a remake of the song to make it more relevant to Bahamian times, “Let there be peace in The Bahamas and let it begin in the HIP (Hubert Ingraham Party).”

What’s peace without laughter?

Trust or economic Thrust?

As interested as I have become in the affairs of predominately Black societies, for a long time it was my European heritage of which I was most boastful. Whether the lineage of my maternal or paternal grandmothers, Grant and McCoy of Scotland or that my grandfather while he carried the name Hall, was raised by his grandfather, Jimmy Wells of Long Island, somehow being able to point to White ancestry gave a sense of pride. When I speak therefore, of the UBP influence alive today behind the scenes of the governing Free National Movement, it is done so not out of some hidden anti-White racist motivation but because slavery, just as the discrimination endured by the ordinary majority in this Country pre 1967, was about economics/money and not about race. It is the love of money that is the root of all evil. It is that evil that worries me at this juncture in our development as a people, and that evil which causes my disappointment at the level of support won by the FNM in the past general elections. But money was responsible for that victory as well.

The allegations of conflict of interest surrounding the Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon. Brent Symonette, son of Sir Roland Symonette is an indication of the kind of agenda men like himself are passionate about. And while at the end of the day those allegations may be dismissed as “small things”, what it all represents is the fundamental difference between the principles of Governance as espoused by the Progressive Liberal Party, and the principles that were embedded within the FNM when they joined hands with the fallen UBP.

As angry as so many may continue to be with the PLP because of the sins of some of the sons of the organization, you will find that the overarching principles of advancing the cause and championing the rights of the ordinary majority, whether through education, healthcare, economic empowerment or social welfare, remain paramount to the organization. This fundamental distinction is not so for the FNM. While the personalities of those selected to lead the FNM are sometimes more appealing, that very sinister motive which places things before people, that agenda which denied the majority political empowerment for as long as it could, still comes shining through as the primary thrust of the ones who call the tune of the FNM.

These are critical times for the ordinary majority. We are not as far along socially and economically as we should have been. Some indicators of our rampant deterioration as a society or network of communities is in our violent crime rates, our literacy levels and poor high school performance, and even in our risky and unhealthy lifestyles. On one hand the Country is poised to make a dramatic boom towards economic and infrastructural development, its entire landscape will undergo spectacular change within the next fifteen or so years. On the other hand there is the very real threat that its people as we are now defined, in the majority, will be left behind and relegated to a low waged working class. The potential of one day owning our economy is quickly slipping through our proverbial fingers.

The Party who was founded to go the extra mile to protect and ensure the viable future of our ordinary majority, the PLP who though not perfect, was committed in more recent years to bringing restoration to our communities, through initiatives like Urban Renewal and educational reform, and national health insurance and a myriad of second chance programs is forced now to be a strong Opposition in the face of an economic thrust agenda seeped in conflict of interest. But no greater conflict than this, that while the Deputy Prime Minister and his kind are out to make themselves even more wealthy, you will find that they have ordered that this Government is not allowed to spend money on “foolishness.” And when you examine what that foolishness really is, you will find that it is anything that gives that added compassion and inspiration needed to lift the ordinary majority to new levels of pride and productivity.

No! This is no era of “Trust.” We are stuck for a little while in a cold and unkind economic thrust. It is that damn love of money ……. Evil!

Black Like Who?

"I claim to be a simple individual liable to err like any other fellow mortal. I own, however, that I have humility enough to confess my errors and to retrace my steps." -- Mahatma Gandhi

Personal growth and change is a lengthy and illusive process. During the years of metamorphosis, because we do not get the luxury of the cocoon experience like the caterpillar which becomes the butterfly, the outward appearance can look quite paradoxical. To the observing human eye, the person undergoing change can by his/her behaviour appear to be changing for the worse while truly, God may very well be dealing with the heart. I am holding out hope that despite what can be seen of the Rt. Hon. Hubert Ingraham, particularly during the House of Assembly proceedings on Wednesday past, internally, it is all a part of his transformation of becoming a better man. However, I am known to be a fool in this regard, believing in the good of others, after all I walk around convinced that we as a people can pull ourselves together sufficiently to become a First World Country. But then, Ingraham never said that he was changing, he self confessed to have been changed, as though he admits that there were aspects about him that had to be done away with.

The Hon. Brent Symonette, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, son of former UBP Premier, Roland Symonette, and heir apparent to the FNM throne, must find it all amusing. There he was nudging, whispering, and sitting next to his new found friend and co-conspirator Prime Minister, who once had to relieve him of his duties in a prior FNM Administration, for what common, ordinary people call thiefin’, as Ingraham led in what became an all out personal attack session nearing the end of the proceedings on October 3. But then Mr. Ingraham did the strangest thing. After having already laid on the Table of the House of Assembly, the 18 heads of agreement negotiated under the Christie led Administration, which only proved that Christie had really been working, and after having made light of the plight of the so many people and their children who are suffering because they are no longer employed in the civil service, from his seat and therefore, off the record, Mr. Ingraham retorted to an Opposition Member that he was, “Black just like you.” “I Black just like you!” Of course his hellish laugh accompanied the statement, as it was loud and boisterous all day long, only confirming that nothing much has changed – yet.

There have always been at least three kinds of Black people. You have the kind that savagely captured neighboring Blacks of other tribes and sold them to Whites into what became the slave trade. These are similar to the ones who undermined the many attempts at uprising against slavery and other forms of racial oppression, even in modern day. Then you have the class of Blacks who are in the majority, they follow whatever is popular at any given historical moment, whether it is a time of passivity or great revolution. Finally, you have a small percentage of Black people who know that the road to freedom is long. And, we are conscious that Black people the world over no matter the appearance of privilege, remain on this journey to true freedom because systems of capitalism and trade so design that there is still no level playing field for Blacks, when it comes to wealth as power. Without economic empowerment, although we can vote and even be elected to Government, our people are still relegated to a second class existence, the apathy of which leads to a displaced energy and the many subsequent social ills which hamper the full success of our Predominately Black societies.

So the question I ask, in all fairness to the man, in whose goodness I choose now to believe, is “Black like who?” When you proclaim to be Black, which kind of Black are you? I know its none of my business ultimately, so just whisper the answer to the one who sits as your co and deputy in our Honourable House of Assembly to your left. After all, he now shares in our African heritage too.

when Partisan Ludicrous Politics invokes the Fury of Noble Men

The family wealth of the former Premier, the late Roland Symonette, yes, the Honorable Brent Symonette’s father, was accumulated through the very lucrative but illegal venture of Rum Running. This is no indictment, as the economy of The Bahamas has always been boosted or maintained by some less than legitimate scheme, usually because of our geographical make-up and our being a stone’s throw from the United States. I had a grand uncle who died on a rum running “excursion” leaving West End, Grand Bahama, headed to the Eastern U.S. sea-board, God rest his soul. When you think about it, Rum Running was to that era, what the drug trade is to ours – except, a Rum Runner could emerge Premier while we castigate (as we should) the smuggler of today’s illegal drugs of choice. Additionally, the major players and beneficiaries of our Rum Running days were White or near White. And, although, there are some Whites or near Whites benefiting from the Bahamian facet of the drug trade, most of the major players are what you would consider, indisputably Black.

This particular article however, is not about the Bahamian drug trade or Rum Running. I actually want to talk about Partisan Politics as perhaps an even greater contributor than the drug trade, to the breakdown of Bahamian society. History reflects that when Rum Running was boosting our economy (and the pockets of those who emerged our leaders), the ordinary majority was becoming drunk with the kind of spirit that was hell bent on building a more just society, a truly better Bahamas, while near the end of the seventies, clearly into the eighties and thereon, the proceeds from drugs and its many scourges became tools in the hands of an ordinary majority, already high on the stuff that would aid in tearing us all down. This terrible “fix” was born just after Majority Rule in 1967, when the “Dissident Eight” eventually reestablished themselves as a political force with the “Symonettes,” and his kind, the UBP, Bay Street Boys, who never wanted to see the ordinary majority attain certain rights and freedoms, and moreover never wanted the ordinary majority to own a substantial piece of the economic pie. Some historians justify the actions of those PLP’s, known as the Dissident Eight, who moved a vote of no-confidence against Sir Lynden Pindling not long into his tenure as Premier, some justify the subsequent backlash levied against these freedom fighters, which forced them out of the PLP and eventually into the pockets of those they years prior, fearlessly wrestled on behalf of their people.

Every FNM I know has some personal reason as to why he/she is angry with the PLP. “You don’t know what they did to my mother!” is the kind of answer I get when I question an FNM supporter or “mother” is replaced with some family member. Sometimes, like the Dissident Eight and their supporters or those like the Rt. Hon. Hubert Ingraham, the response becomes, “You don’t know what they did to me!” And with this kind of response is ever present the bitterness, unforgiveness, and honest hurt in the voices of those scorned. It is the kind of pain that is only momentarily quelled when the PLP is defeated at the polls, the kind of pain that led/leads to those heated elections where family stops talking to family, and neighbours stop being neighbours, and Christians take a little break from Christianity. This coupled with an out of hand drug trade, is responsible for the crumbling of our “Gibraltar.” What came first, the spite or the vengeance? That debate would perhaps spark an all out war. One thing however, has not changed: while the ordinary have remained ordinary because we have been busily at odds with each other, a certain group of old friends and colleagues, hiding behind angry and hurting ordinary faces, have continued to secure their very substantial portion of this economic empire.

The PLP can never re-sensitize the Bahamian electorate about the historical injustices levied against us by the UBP (and it has to), until it effectively deals with the division, personal and national heartaches it has caused to so many others, itself. In its new age of compassion or attempt at compassion, the headship of the PLP must lead in the restoration of a kinder, gentler Bahamas by taking responsibility for the not so glorious actions of an over-all glorious past. “We Are Sorry” will go a long way in starting the process of healing so badly needed not just from the realm of our political culture but on all levels of Bahamian community and family life. “We Are Sorry” is a phrase that so many gone into the dust longed to hear, and so many living among us, PLPs as well, wish they could now hear, in many instances, just for peace of mind. A few on that long list may include, members of the Dissident Eight, the Rt. Hon. Hubert Ingraham, and from recent readings, even Mr. Oswald Brown. Because, there is a greater struggle before us now that requires a solidarity achievable only through the reconciliation of our past, as was reiterated by the Hon. Arthur Hanna, who when sworn in as Governor General, said that the past is behind us “it is the future which beckons us come.” But until we change the formula so that more of us are able to own our economy, which is what the Christie PLP administration attempted to usher in, we have little control over our beckoning future. And, sadly, until we return to a more peaceful and unified collective frame of mind, we cannot change the formula.

lyc … etv!

l y c - e t v

My niece has been trying to get me up to speed on instant messaging lingo – o m g = oh my God, l o l = laugh out loud, s m t = suck my teeth, etc., etc. It really is a new cultural phenomenon sparked by this international technological revolution. Our young people have essentially come up with a universal digital language that in many instances crosses borders, nationalities, religions, ethnicities, you name it. However I must admit that I haven’t really been able to concentrate on our “how to keep Aunty young and in touch” time or very much else for that matter, because of all of the violence plaguing our Country, The Bahamas. There is a groaning deep within my spirit, a preoccupation really because of a prophetic realization, that if we do not find a way and find it soon, to become more peaceful, more tolerant, more loving as a Society, history will not record that we were one of the first predominately Black developing Countries to reach First World Status. Rather, the story may very well read that despite our economic potential, despite our geographical make-up and positioning in proximity to the most powerful Country in the World, despite our rich history and long and peaceful love affair with democracy, despite the very natural indomitable Bahamian spirit prone to overcome even nature’s fury, and despite our ability to compete tenaciously on any world stage, somehow we were so overcome by violence, hatred, and unforgiveness, that not long into our existence as an Independent Nation, we found ourselves in a condition as grim and uninspiring as that of today’s Haiti.

Often time, we believe that the definition of violence is limited to physical altercations involving fists and or weapons. However, violence is so much more! It is in the harshness of our words, it is in so many of our actions and inaction, it is in the pens/keyboards of our writers, journalists and public figures, it is in our refusal to be each other’s keeper. Violence is in the silence of those who claim to love and serve God but refuse to be His voice in response to injustice, and violence with an intolerable prevalence seems to be infesting our political culture, as well as many of the hearts of those who have the privilege to be called our leaders. This morning I read where 23 adults and sixteen children are being violently chased out of a make-shift trailer community in Bootle Bay, West End Grand Bahama. In the article titled, “A Cry For Help” the author quotes a female resident who is also a mother in despair as the electricity has now been turned off to aid in forcing them out. She says, “We are willing to move, but we need more time, I have six young children, ages four, six, eleven and fourteen and John my six year old suffers from chronic asthma and requires constant care and special medication.” There is no greater violence than the kind perpetrated by the State against a child.

One perspective or account as to why former UBP senior man, “Sir” Stafford Sands left The Bahamas after the attainment of Majority Rule is that allegedly, he had no confidence in the ability of Black people to Govern and manage this Country. This sentiment you can bet is shared by many former UBP’s and their offspring. Suprisingly it also uncosciously crept into the writings of a very distinguished “colored” member of the now FNM as he tried to justify the FNM’s once anti-independence stance. I was astonished and disappointed because as a writer, and an objective Bahamian, I somewhat respect this particular man. But in his own words, in an open letter to a sitting PLP Senator, he penned the following, “You know full well that the Sir Cecil who advocated independence in 1967and warned against independence under Sir Lynden Pindling in 1972 was the same man but with an added experience. The Sir Cecil who spoke in 1972 had, along with the rest of us, been publicly condemned as a traitor by PLP colleagues. In an orchestrated attack at Lewis Yard he had also been beaten over the head with a metal chair because he dared to criticize the leadership of the PLP. There had also been an attempt on his life by a knife-wielding would-be assassin in Parliament Square. Do you wonder that under these circumstances he questioned whether we had attained the level of maturity necessary for a successful transition to an independent and tolerant democracy?”

Our gross and prevalent expressions of violence, again, even those penned, because the pen is still mightier than the sword, cause the concerns of those who question the potential success of Independent predominately Black societies, to hold some legitimate weight. Can we indeed reach beyond our differences and dysfunctions to display that maturity necessary for a continued independent and tolerant democracy? I alone can never answer this question. All I know is that I don’t want that sentiment about us to ever be proven true. In the potential shadows of Sir Stafford Sands and his kind, I therefore make a call for peace, everywhere, from our homes and streets to our schools, churches, Halls of Parliament and seat of Government, adding my own instant messaging lingo to it all: l y c – e t v. So that these men are not right about us, l y c: Love Your Country - e t v: End The Violence! Love Your Country – End The Violence!

R. I. P. - The Original Mr. BIGs!

We in The Bahamas do not honour our artists enough - whether painters or musicians, writers, actors, you name it. Despite the fact that it is the art of a society that outlives even sometimes its people (I wish we could ask the Mayans or even the early Egyptians), in The Bahamas if one chooses not to abide by the convention of becoming a lawyer, doctor, accountant or some other service oriented status quo professional, one is deemed almost a waste of time. Yet it is the Bahamian Calvin Lockhart or "Baha-American" Sidney Poitier who are among the best recognized by the world, out of all Bahamian citizenry.

When I met Mr. Lockhart it was certainly an honour for me because there sat a man who had represented his, our Country well on television and the big screen. Sadly however, he had not done as well as Sir Sidney, and was forced in his latter years to live outside of stardom, especially in his home Country. But as we sat in the 'Chicken Nest' in the settlement of West End, Grand Bahama, eating conch salad and drinking a cold one, there also sat a man whom outside of stardom had not lost his love for naturally entertaining others, and had not in the least grown bitter or discontent. And for me therefore, Calvin Lockhart, just the man, will forever remain in life and death, the original, "Mr. BIGs." May his soul rest in peace.

“One Day Out of Seven”

One day out of seven my parents in their earthly love, gave birth to me and made for me a home;
I went from babe to lady there, like flowers in their season I in time also came to bloom.
They trained me well, my early years, I grew to know my place in life, in stature, in God;
They spared no good thing from my youth, not gifts or nourishment, nor even love’s correcting rod.

One day out of seven God joined me to a man – I dressed for him that day in finest cloth and lace;
We two became one in love, in law, and walked together our ordered steps by Him who saved us by His Grace.
With children we made quite a life: Franklyn, Judith, Joel, Percell, Hardy, Leanora, Naaman, Todd and “Brucie” too;
Our earthly castle stands upon a hill in Bimini, while on Christ the Solid Rock our souls are standing true.

One day out of seven while looking in a mirror, time and chance so ordained that great-grandma was staring back at me;
My children had grown children who had children – wow – I raised my hand in thankful praise for such a bless-ed age to be.
Yet in the midst of all this joy, time and chance along with aches and pains would bring an unfair blow;
The man who was my better half in life and love had finished all his earthly work and to God’s home he had to go.

“One day out of seven” I would say, “The Lord will call me too and no more misery I would have to bear;”
I’d sing the hymns and cry and dream, “I will meet you in the morning” “Just over in the Glory-land” “Tell mother I’ll be there.”
My friends and loved ones tried to cheer me up and find good reason why I should not long for one day out of seven;
Now perhaps you’ll understand, my day has come – please do your very best to join us where everyday is never-ending happiness in heaven.

© 2007 Faith M. Hall
Penned for:
Mama Jo-Anna Rolle

Home-going Tribute

SAMUEL THEODORE GRANT, affectionately known as “Teddy” was born on the 6th day of October, 1918 to Ceva Wilchcombe and Manasseh Grant of West End Grand Bahama, The Bahamas. He was the 7th of 8 children born out of that union.

From his earliest years, Teddy Grant was always ambitiously striving, fun loving, and oh so full of life. He left quite a legacy from his youth in West End, the quaint, sea-side boating and fishing capital of Grand Bahama. Not only was he known for his exceptional skills in carpentry but Teddy was a premier fisherman and yachtsman, and was equally considered the premier catch for some lucky lady.

In 1949 or there about, Teddy met that special lady who would change the rest of his life for the better. It was in the meeting and marrying of American born, Verneda Hall, the daughter of the preacher and the missionary, Moses and Madeline Hall that he was led into a new life in Palm Beach Florida and eventually, a new life in God and the Church.

It was his boating and fishing, and business skills that immediately secured a comfortable life for he and his young bride in Florida. However, soon after Brother Grant discovered that like his father in law, his real life’s work was a call to Christian Ministry. And so after committing his life to the Lord, in 1955 starting as a Deacon and Sunday School Superintendent, Rev. Grant launched into what amounted to 45 years of dedicated Ministry in the Church of God, the better half of his 88 years of life. He is listed as serving additionally as State Youth Director, Pastor, District Overseer, Bishop, Member of State Licensing Board, and most recently, he served on the committee for the coordination of Senior Citizen Services.

Possessing incredible business acumen, as demonstrated through his ownership and management of Grant’s Laundry Mat on Old Dixie, Highway, Riviera Beach, the hierarchy of the Church of God soon identified Rev. Grant as a builder. His ministry therefore, took on the pattern of continuous movement. He would be sent to what seemed the most struggling church, where he would grow it to unprecedented success, financial stability and membership only to soon thereafter be moved on to the next vulnerable location.

Although this practice seemed sometimes unfair, Rev. did not mind, he viewed it as an honor and a privilege. Wherever they sent Rev. Grant he became a blessing to every member he met and by this gained more and more spiritual family members. For his obedience and faithfulness he was bestowed by his peers in The Church of God with the rank and title of Bishop. Over the course of his years, Bishop Grant shepherded at Dania Church of God, Ft. Meyers Church of God, Boynton Church of God, Pt. Salerno Church of God, Opa-Locka Church of God, and 35th Street Church of God. He spent his final years assisting wherever necessary at his home church, 5th Street Church of God.

Through it all, while God remained first in his life, Teddy Grant held an unwavering commitment to his family. He will be remembered best as husband to the love of his life, Verneda, Daddy to his beloved daughter Pamela, devout brother to his siblings, godfather to his many godchildren and as Uncle Teddy and moral anchor to a host of nieces and nephews.

On Friday February 9, just before leaving to attend to the gardens of the Grace Estate as he did three times weekly, Teddy Grant suffered a massive stroke. Exactly three weeks later on Friday March 2, Bishop Samuel T. Grant made his final and complete ministerial move. He has gone on to receive his crown of glory and has joined the heavenly host in their eternal praise to our Lord and Savior, God through Jesus Christ.

MAY HIS SOUL ENJOY ETERNAL REST

He is survived by: his wife, Vernada Hall Grant; daughter, Pamela Grant Williams and son in law Lenwood Williams.
1 brother, Wilbert Grant; 2 Brothers in law, Levi Wesley Miller and Grover Hall; 4 Sisters in law, Emma Grant, Delphene Miller, Christine Hall and Anna Hall.
18 Nieces, Muriel, Beulah, Aldeese, Alsette, Virgill, Mucine, Cynthia, Archilee, Duvella, Florida, Lonnie, Pamela, Dolly, Lois, Rossilyn, Blondie, Natasha and Faith.
11 Nephews, Nicholo, Shogi, Plato, Vascoe, Dugal, Joacum, Wesley Jr., Kevin, Peter, David and Damien.
God Children, Issie, Dashwood, Nette, Sheryl, Bernice, Zernobia, Vantrice, Cecil, Sheldon, Derek, and others.
God sisters and brothers, Geneva Martin, Minette Cooper, Mary Storr, Wilton, Glen and Clarence Bartlette.
A host of other relatives, spiritual family and special friends too many to name, and the church family of 5th Street Church of God.

40th Anniversary, Bahamian Majority Rule Day (Jan. 10, '07)

Just Before Entering ...

We must give it to the Hebrew people … their oral and written testimonies of God’s favor, faithfulness and redemptive power gave birth to the three major world religions, and thousands of years later, continue to influence political, theological and social realities, the world over. Even here, in The Bahamas where so many Bahamians flock to give their praise, time and money to our various churches, it is their reflection of God as the God of Moses and Abraham and the major and minor prophets in the history of the Jews, which inspires this devotion. But it must be noted, and theological emphasis must be given to this most important fact: God is also the God of Bahamians; God is the relevant and very present God of a right now Bahamas, a God whose favor, faithfulness and redemptive power has also brought us safe thus far. However, unlike the Hebrew people, we have failed miserably in our written and oral accounts of God’s glory, weakening our significance in the world, and threatening the true nature of the power of who we really are, CHOSEN.

January 10, 2007 will mark the 40th Anniversary of one of those significant, historical manifestations of our relationship to and with our God. The 10th day of the first month as it was for Moses and the people of Israel so it is for Bahamians. In 1967, this day heralded a new reality not, as it is so emphasized for Black Bahamians only, but for all Bahamians, as that much needed segment of Bahamian society, the average, the ordinary, the majority gained full rights to participation in Nation building, thus making Bahamian society in general, resemble more closely true humanity, true civility. We had on that day been liberated not from evil white men, NO! We had been liberated from the crippling effects of a twisted consciousness possessed by some and accepted by the rest, that somehow privilege (back then, money and power) vested in the few, gave inherent license to deny the less privileged fundamental freedoms and opportunities. We were to go from a reality where few owned and few ruled to a reality that guaranteed that all would own and all would rule by virtue of the fact that by citizenship, all belonged.

Perhaps because initial commentary made this milestone about the dynamics of race only, and not the dynamics of power, somewhere in this paradigm shift, we got lost. Black leaders through the very tool which brought about victory, partisan politics, got lost fighting to wield illusive political power. White leaders and not so white leaders just got lost (went underground), while holding on to economic power; and by not adequately regenerating the true essence of the cause of the movement, Bahamians as a people have found ourselves, some better off than others of course, lost, wandering aimlessly without a concrete collective consciousness and mission as to who we are, where we are, from whence we have come, and where we need urgently to go.

Well, progress is now upon us, all of us, with a fury more intense than that of the three hurricanes combined, which ravaged Grand Bahama not long ago. This Country, by its geographical positioning and make-up can no longer contain its investment potential and has become the envy and interest of the rich around the World. While they are coming in droves and buying and developing our birthright and subsequently owning more and more of our economy, we as a people are busy gearing up to massacre one another politically, and busy perpetuating the various destructive life philosophies born out of our divisive past, which focus on selfish gain over fraternal collective love. Our chance to fully own this Country, of going from care-takers to becoming real stake-holders, that opportunity of the ordinary majority becoming full participants, as was the promise is dwindling before our eyes. But all is not lost, the time of possession is now or never.

Forty years after wandering in their wilderness, a handful of Israelites and/or supporters of the movement, risked everything to catch a glimpse of their own promise that had drawn their fore-parents out of bondage. Upon returning to their leader, most concluded that the struggle to become and possess what God had promised was an impossibility. Focused on their limitations, and focused on the gigantic hurdles standing in the way of destiny, fearful because of the absence of a clear cut plan to victory and constrained by a divided people who had lost sight of the vision long ago, the then advisors tried to convince the appointed leader to settle for present reality … Needless to say with the right leadership, records reflect that in spite of their challenges, the Israelites eventually crossed over and embraced their promise, and their story convicts us today even as it did generations immediately following.

Just before entering a significant historical era of a Nation, leadership, influenced by those who would venture even where the brave dare not go, and convicted by a God who if one is obedient, always keeps His promise, remains focused. Leadership must decide even in the face of nay-sayers and the threat of peril, to at last, bring about that culminating great thrust toward the promise, (for Bahamians, a paradigm shift of heart and mind). And just before entering, real leadership points the way ahead, and inspires a people to follow. In this our 40th Anniversary of liberation and wandering, might I, the one unafraid of the future and the giants, remind our leaders along with my sisters and brothers on this journey that the way is still FORWARD, it is still UPWARD, it is still ONWARD, and the means by which we attain it is still by doing it TOGETHER! Majority however, must not just rule, it must be prepared to serve.

Faith Hall, LL.B (Hons).
Author

Happy New Year Folks!

I have started the New Year lost for words so I figure a baby with sunglasses and a cigarette, chillin’ out, with eyes of hope and expectation says it all.

Yeah, we’re in for trouble (smile).

God bless and keep you all this year. 7 is an historical, significant Hebrew number. It is said to represent completion – ending of a cycle, beginning of another. So I wish you all the beginning of a new cycle of good fortune and plenty. For many, dreams will unfold as the longsuffering of “the promise” will finally come to pass. For many, the various forms of famine will have ended, drought will be replaced with showers of miraculous blessings and the weeping of the long night will turn to shouts of joy in the morning light. In all these things remember to keep God first in your lives and acknowledge Him as the author and finisher of cycles.
Love etc.,
Faith