St. Lucia Diaspora Message by Honorable Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre
It is with tremendous pride and gratitude that I address you, on the occasion of the 45th Anniversary of our country’s Independence. This momentous occasion is not just a commemoration of our nation’s journey to sovereignty, but also a reflection on the collective strength, unity, resilience, and creativity, that defines the uniqueness of our beloved nation.
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As we look back on the past four and a half decades, it is essential to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of the Saint Lucian Diaspora. You, the sons and daughters of this island, scattered across the globe, have played a vital role in shaping our nation’s narrative and advancing our shared aspirations for progress and prosperity.
The theme of this year’s celebration, “Douvan Ansanm; Building a Nation Through Unity, Resilience and Creativity”, is a testament to the importance of ensuring that everyone is meaningfully engaged in the business of our national development, which essentially requires us to maintaining strong connections with all our people at home and abroad. The bonds that tie us together, transcending geographical boundaries, have proven to be instrumental in our nation’s development; whether in North America, Europe, the Caribbean, or beyond, the Saint Lucian spirit remains unyielding, a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.
Our diaspora has been a continual source of inspiration and support, not just in financial terms but also in the form of intellectual capital, skills, and cultural enrichment. Many of you have excelled in your respective fields, becoming ambassadors for Saint Lucia on the global stage. Your achievements in business, academia, arts, and sports continue to inspire us; bringing honour not only to your families but by elevating the standing and character of our nation.
But importantly, let us not forget that with success comes a responsibility to give back. I urge the diaspora to continue playing an active role in the development of Saint Lucia. Whether through investments, mentorship programmes, or collaborations with local initiatives; your involvement is crucial in propelling our country toward sustainable growth.
In these current times, the world is facing unprecedented challenges. The global pandemic, the wars in Ukraine and Palestine, and escalating food prices are all testing the strength of nations and communities alike. It is during such times that the true spirit of solidarity and resilience shines through. I extend my deepest gratitude to you the Diaspora, for your unwavering support during these trying times. Your contributions, both tangible and intangible, have been a lifeline for many of our people facing hardships.
As we celebrate our independence, let us also reflect on the principles and values that define us as a nation. Our commitment to democracy, social justice, and the rule of law remains steadfast. The road ahead may be filled with challenges, but together, as one Saint Lucian family, we can overcome any obstacle that stands in our way.
This government is dedicated to creating an environment conducive to growth and prosperity. We are investing in infrastructure, education, and healthcare to ensure a better quality of life for all our citizens. I call upon you in the Diaspora to actively engage in these initiatives and to contribute your expertise and resources towards building a brighter future for Saint Lucia.
Moreover, the preservation of our cultural heritage is paramount. Our customs, traditions, and the unique Saint Lucian way of life are the threads that weave the fabric of our identity. The Diaspora, with its rich diversity, plays a crucial role in keeping our cultural flame burning brightly overseas.
I encourage you to actively participate in cultural exchange programmes, support local artists, and promote the rich tapestry of Saint Lucian heritage across the world.
In closing, let me extend my heartfelt appreciation to each of you, for your love for our homeland, your dedication to its well-being, and your relentless pursuit of excellence. You are indeed an integral part of the Saint Lucian story. As we celebrate our 45th Year of
Independence, let us embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead with a sense of unity, purpose, national pride, and with renewed vigour and commitment.
Happy Independence Day, to each and every one of you. May God bless you, and may God bless our beloved Saint Lucia!
CARICOM Congratulatory Message to Saint Lucia Re: 45th Independence Anniversary
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat presents its compliments to the Ministry of External Affairs, International Trade, Civil Aviation and Diaspora Affairs of Saint Lucia, and has the honour to request the latter’s kind assistance in having the following congratulatory message from Dr. Carla N. Barnett, Secretary-General of CARICOM, transmitted to the Honourable Philip J. Pierre, Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, on the occasion of the country’s Forty-Fifth Anniversary of Independence on 22 February 2024.
Begins:
“Honourable Prime Minister,
On behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), I am pleased to congratulate the Government and People of Saint Lucia on the joyous occasion of your Forty-Fifth Anniversary of Independence.
The theme “Douvan Ansanm: Building a Nation through Unity, Resilience, and Creativity” captures the indomitable strength, culture and spirit of Saint Lucia, and its remarkable progress and journey over the past four and a half decades. On this momentous occasion, the Community joins you in celebrating the rich legacy of a nation that has consistently embodied the values of stability and unwavering determination in the face of challenges. May this unyielding spirit continue to guide Saint Lucia on its journey towards a future filled with peace and prosperity.
The contributions of Saint Lucia to the regional integration movement are well noted.
Honourable Prime Minister, the Community has benefitted considerably from your stewardship as Lead Head in the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet with responsibility for Sustainable Development, including Environment and Disaster Management, and Water. These issues remain vital to the advancement of the Community’s objective of improving the quality of life and well-being of its citizens.
The Community is likewise pleased to celebrate Saint Lucia’s recent election to the Presidency of the Executive Board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Saint Lucia’s leadership will steer the critical processes of selecting a new Director-General of the Organization and allow for enhanced visibility for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the promotion of education, science, culture, communications, peace and sustainable development.
On this special Forty-Fifth Anniversary of Independence, I extend best wishes and heartfelt congratulations to the Government and People of Saint Lucia, and assure you of the unwavering support of the Caribbean Community for your continued progress and unity.”
Ends.
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat avails itself of the opportunity to renew to the Ministry of External Affairs, International Trade, Civil Aviation and Diaspora Affairs of Saint Lucia, the assurances of its highest consideration.
OECS Extends Congratulations to Saint Lucia on its 45th Anniversary of Independence
The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission extends its congratulations and best wishes to the Government and people of Saint Lucia on its 45th Anniversary of Independence.
This year, Saint Lucia celebrates its independence under the theme “Douvan Ansanm: Building a Nation Through Unity, Resilience and Creativity”. The OECS Commission commemorated the occasion by hosting a virtual flag-raising ceremony. The event featured remarks from the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia and the Director General of the OECS.
Delivering an address to the citizens of the OECS, the Honourable Philip J. Pierre, Prime Minister of Saint Lucia remarked:
“Fellow citizens of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), as Saint Lucia celebrates 45 years of Independence as a sovereign country, we take great pride in our demonstrated capacity to successfully manage our external affairs and internal affairs and that we have been able to work closely with our sister OECS nations, to broaden and deepen functional cooperation among ourselves for the overall development of the citizens of our sub-region.
The right of self-determination which brought about our independence from colonial rule, brought with it the right to pursue our national aspirations and full responsibility for all aspects of our development. Over the years, we have governed our country by forging relations with various organisations and countries in keeping with our shared values, principles and the expectations of our people. In this regard the OECS has been an invaluable development partner and has played a pivotal role in Saint Lucia’s development since its formation in the early 1980’s.
As Saint Lucia celebrates 45 years of independence, we reflect on our shared history, and the values and principles of democracy, free and fair elections, press freedom, social justice and the rule-of-law, which binds us together with our OECS neighbours. And in that spirit of celebration I take the opportunity to reaffirm Saint Lucia’s unwavering commitment to this enduring partnership with our OECS sisters and brothers.”
Congratulating Saint Lucia on the ‘significant milestone’ of their 45th Anniversary of Independence, the Director-General of the OECS, His Execellency Dr. Didacus Jules, remarked:
“Douvan Ansanm – literally “forward together” highlights the imperative of unity as a basic precondition for progress. If we examine the chronicle of Caribbean history, we will see that unity has been the cornerstone of our progress. As a small island nation, we do have our differences but ultimately these do not distinguish us. It is always our unity and national will that gives us strength. Our ancestors, coming from diverse backgrounds, fought to lay a foundation for a society that would value harmony and mutual respect. Today, as we navigate the complexities of the modern world, unity should remain our guiding principle. It is only by standing together, as one people, moving together as one that we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead. Se sa Douvan Ansamn Signifye.
Let us pledge, on this auspicious day, to renew our commitment to unity – to understand our differences, celebrate our diversity, and forge a shared identity that is uniquely Saint Lucian. As we celebrate 45 years of independence, let us remember that our journey is far from over. The theme “Going Forward Together: Building a Nation Through Unity, Resilience, and Creativity” is not just a reflection of where we have been; it is a call to action. And it is a call to action not just for Saint Lucia but for the entire OECS and the Caribbean. In a world in which might is always right and power defines possibility, the survival of small states can only be assured by being stronger together. It is a reminder that the future of our nation rests in our hands. Let us embrace this opportunity to build a more unified, resilient, and creative Saint Lucia that is inextricably part of a vibrant OECS. Let us go forward together, with courage and conviction, to build a nation that future generations will be proud of.”
As the OECS sub-region joins with the Government and people of Saint Lucia in celebration of the 45th Anniversary of Independence, the Commission encourages citizens of the OECS to view Saint Lucia’s 45th Anniversary Independence Military Parade on YouTube. Key highlights may also be viewed via the Saint Lucia Independence Facebook Page.
Adam Stewart, Executive ChairmanSandals Resorts International
To The People of St. Lucia,
On behalf of my family and the entire Sandals Resorts organization, it is my privilege and sincere pleasure to wish you warm congratulations on the 45th anniversary of your independence, St. Lucia. Yours is a great country and today is all about celebrating your journey as a nation, a star among Caribbean destinations for your unparallelled beauty, vibrant culture, and the pride of your people. We know you well and I am honored to acknowledge the profound connection that has developed between our brand and the people of St. Lucia. Since the opening of Sandals Regency La Toc more than thirty years ago and the expansion of our footprint with the openings of Sandals Halcyon and Sandals Grande St. Lucia to the debut this month of our first Early Childhood Learning Centre, we have worked alongside you toward a better future for St. Lucia and that commitment and continued investment will never end.May the warm hospitality that makes St. Lucia exceptional continue and may you meet the promise of this year’s theme to build a nation through unity, resilience, and creativity. As always, we will be with you, rooting for the success you so richly deserve.
One Love,
