ROSEAU, Dominica - Dominica bestowed its highest honor on the Olympic Gold medalist, Thea Lafond Gadson, as the country observed its 46th anniversary of political independence from Britain with a call for the younger generation to emulate her success and ensure the future socio-economic development of the country.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, addressing the nation on Sunday night (CMC Photo)Monday and Tuesday are public holidays marking the occasion.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, delivering his Independence Message at the Military Parade and the award of honours to citizens at the Windsor Park Stadium on Sunday night, said Lafond Gadson, who received the Dominica Award of Honour (DAH) and the first Dominican to ever win a medal at the Olympics “brought joy to the heart of every Dominican”.
“When Thea stood on that podium, gold medal draped around her neck, it wasn’t just her victory—it was ours. It was a victory for every Dominican child who dreams of greatness, a victory for every family who knows the value of hard work, and a victory for this nation. She reminded us all that, no matter the odds, Dominica Rises.”
Skerrit said the performances of the Dominican cricketers on the West Indies team, the achievements of the young farmer, Kevorn Vidal being crowned the CARICOM Youth Farmer of the Year; and beekeeper Nathaniel Lovell’s La Vie Miel Honey received the Best International Honey award at the 2024 UK National Honey Show and the excitement provided by the young musicians, show that Dominica is indeed rising.
“The truth is… whether it is in athletics, in education, music, or in industry, we produce excellence. And as long as we continue to invest in our people, to give them the tools to succeed, Dominica will continue to rise, taking its rightful place among the great nations of our region and the world.”
But he warned that in a world that is rapidly changing and where the challenges of the past seem so different to those “we now face,” the theme of his address “Dominica Rises, not merely as a reflection of what we have already achieved, but as a commitment to what we will build together”.
He said 46 years ago, when the island attained its independence from Britain, “we were a people ready to hold our heads high, ready to face the world as an independent nation, full of hope and ambition.
“In 1978, we were determined to define our identity, to stand alongside other nations as equals, and to claim our rightful place in the global community. But today, in 2024, our challenges have evolved.
“The world has changed, and so must we. Independence today is far more than sovereignty over our land, it is about the sovereignty of our ideas, our innovations, and our resilience.”
Skerrit said that as the country sails through the waters of time, like a vessel, Dominica Rises srong and determined, navigating toward a future of prosperity.
Olympic Gold medalist Thea La Fond Gadson showing off her DAH award (CMC Photo)
“We must remain relevant in an ever-evolving world. Nations around the globe are redefining their place, technology is transforming industries, climate change is reshaping economies, and new opportunities arise for those who are prepared. We, too, must rise to the occasion, adapt, and lead with bold vision.
“We are grounded by our roots, but it is our ambition that propels us forward. Just as a skilled captain adjusts the sails to catch the wind, Dominica must continually adapt to chart its course, mindful of where we have come from, but focused on where we are going.
“ Independence in 2024 is about being forward-thinking, about embracing progress while holding firm to our values. In doing so, Dominica Rises, not just for us, but for future generations,” Skerrit said.
But he told the nation that the seas are not always calm.
“There are moments when the waters turn choppy, when dark clouds gather overhead, and the journey becomes uncertain. The global challenges we face, climate change, economic instability, global pandemics and geopolitical conflicts, test our resolve as a nation. But like a sturdy vessel, Dominica Rises stronger with every, plan and prepare for the future with bold initiatives that put Dominica at the forefront of global discussions.
“Our commitment to renewable energy, particularly our geothermal project, positions us not just as a leader in the Caribbean, but as a model for the world, ensuring energy security and building a sustainable future for our people.
“Over the past year, we have seen a suite of new initiatives come to life, and many more are on the horizon. From the International Airport to the Cabrits Marina, from our housing interventions to our education grants, we are laying the foundation for a future where no one is left behind. You have heard those words before, but let me assure you: Dominica Rises, and we will rise together.”
Skerrit said that as part of the new initiatives going forward, there must also be a greater acceptance of the national symbols, noting that they “represent our sovereignty and deserve deeper reverence as we work to preserve our national identity”.
He said beginning January 1, 2025, the national flag shall be displayed on all public buildings, including schools, hospitals and health centers, as a symbol of our nationhood, of pride, and of gratitude to those who fought for the country’s independence.
“We also appeal to the private sector businesses and institutions to adopt the practice. This will foster a deeper understanding, particularly among our youth, of the significance of our independence and the privilege of being Dominican.”
Apart from Lafond Gadson, Dominica provided the Sisserou Award of Honour, the second highest award that recognizes people who have made significant contributions to the country, to the governments and peoples of the United Kingdom and Canada for their assistance in the formation and financing of the Climate Resilience Execution Agency for Dominica (CREAD).
“We are eternally grateful to them and to the other nations, organizations and partners in development, which have stood with Dominica and helped us along our journey,” Skerrit said, adding “as we forge ahead, let us redefine what independence means for Dominica in 2024. “Yes, it will always be a celebration of our past, but it must now also become a call to action for our future. Independence today means being confident in our abilities, bold in our decisions, and wise in our leadership.
“Independence also means taking responsibility for our own destiny. It means leading with purpose, with vision, and with a commitment to the well-being of every citizen. Our task is great, but together, we will accomplish it,” Skerrit said, promising to steer “this vessel, ensuring that Dominica continues to rise, soar and prosper”.
