As we mark the 42nd anniversary of CARICOM, the community is reminded the intent of the Founding Fathers is to harness the cultural, economic, social and political will of the people within the region as a force for their collective empowerment. The instrument that established CARICOM is grounded in a philosophy guided by time-honoured principles and is expected to be used in protecting every element in our collective determination. It means that while we may advance our individual cause, this has to be done in recognition of our collective aspirations.
As members of this community we share a common history of brutal slavery, indenture-ship and colonialism that was repelled by our forebears. The members of this community are today independent countries, having severed the yoke of colonialism, which cemented the necessity of working together towards common goals, but more so to make real the aspirations of the Founding Fathers.
When the Founding Fathers- Forbes Burnham, Errol Barrow, Eric Williams and Michael Manley- came together on 4th July 1973 to establish the Caribbean Community and Common Market it was driven by the leaders’ recognition that our destiny is intertwined, as such it requires all swimming together or risk sinking separately. Thus, any temptation to pursue individual interest at the expense of the collective must not lose sight of the principle that underpins the establishment, survival and growth of the individual is hinged to the collective.
Together we aspire! Together we achieve!
Happy 42nd to the people of CARICOM.
