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grenada independence 2006
2006 independence message
from His Excellency
Denis G. Antoine
Grenada's Ambassador to
the United States of America
 My Fellow Grenadians:
It is my distinct honor to wish all Grenadians at home and abroad happy independence. The annual celebration of the birth of our nation - "Grenada" seems to be a period, which evokes a great sense of satisfaction, ownership and overt demonstration of patriotism among Grenadians. This anniversary also stirs up expressions of pride in belonging to a group of people with a heritage enriched with courage, a resilient spirit, effervescence, and brilliance; not unlike most Caribbean people, but in a certain spicily, charming Grenadian way.
It is very heartening to note that ia spite of the small land mass and population, Grenadian nationals are making sizable contributions in all walks of life in the United States of America, and many other parts of the world.
Today, more than ever, as the governments of the Caribbean Community seek to create a single market and economy, the call goes out to the population that have left their homelands, in the Caribbean to maintain and strengthen the links with their homelands. Therefore, it seems like the right moment in the history of Grenada, for its nationals abroad to reconnect with their country. However, this re-linking between the origin and host country must be a different engagement from the historical meaning of the word "Diaspora".
In keeping with this year's theme for Grenada's 32nd Anniversary of Independence "Promoting Growth, Stability, and Poverty Alleviation," Grenadians abroad remain well positioned to help empower our society, where growth implies building human capabilities, broadening choices, equity, sustainability and production.
The role of the Diaspora in promoting growth and stability in Grenada could be advanced as an essential component in the empowerment process. This reconnection and renewal could begin by creating a strategic trans-national network, linking Grenadians in the USA and the international community to the source - Grenada - to make a greater impact on poverty eradication.
We can no longer focus solely on our own Diaspora abroad. We must regard the foreign Diasporas living in Grenada also, as fundamental to our local stability. After 32 years of independence, we should acknowledge the input made to our development by individuals from other nations that have made Grenada their home, as you do in your new homeland.
In facing the challenges of reconstruction, and the quest for sustained economic and social vibrancy, it is time to draw more on our "Relationship Capital". This include drawing on the name recognition created by Grenada's social and political history; the stations in life where the sons and daughters contribute to the prosperity of rich nations; its cooperation and membership in international forums; and its alliances with friendly nations. These relationships, in addition to significant individuals and corporate partners, remain an invaluable enabling resource.
In the words of our National Anthem "May we with faith and courage, aspire, build, advance, as one people..."
M ay God bless Grenada, on its 32nd Anniversary of Independence and always.
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