- Share This Post
- submit
- 2
-
Sparkle (0)
One of our wonderful BlogHers, Melinda Casino, dropped me a line via Lisa Stone to let me know that June has been declared Caribbean Heritage month in the United States. I was thrilled she let me know, because (a) I don't live in the United States any more, so likely would not have known otherwise, and (b) as a West Indian who spent many years in America, I've always been particularly proud of the achievements of individuals like Colin Powell, Sidney Poitier, Geoffrey Holder, Sheryl Lee Ralph and many other West Indians who have made their mark on American history. The proclamation by George Bush was made on the fifth of this month, and the press release out of the White House reads as follows:
During Caribbean-American Heritage Month, we celebrate the great contributions of Caribbean Americans to the fabric of our Nation, and we pay tribute to the common culture and bonds of friendship that unite the United States and the Caribbean countries.
Our Nation has thrived as a country of immigrants, and we are more vibrant and hopeful because of the talent, faith, and values of Caribbean Americans. For centuries, Caribbean Americans have enriched our society and added to the strength of America. They have been leaders in government, sports, entertainment, the arts, and many other fields.
During the month of June, we also honor the friendship between the United States and the Caribbean countries. We are united by our common values and shared history, and I join all Americans in celebrating the rich Caribbean heritage and the many ways in which Caribbean Americans have helped shape this Nation.
Nice, huh?
Now, in the interest of full disclosure, I have to admit that I find myself wondering what took them so long. One might argue that the only reason this is happening now is because Republicans are worried about the effect Caribbean American voters might have on upcoming polls -- particularly given the fact that some swing states (like, say, Florida) have huge Caribbean-American populations. Perhaps. But here's the thing -- I've spoken to several of my friends who remain in America, and most of them had no idea the declaration of Caribbean Heritage Month even existed. So I'm left with mixed feelings: thrilled that the acknowledgment has finally happened, but curious as to its true purpose, if there isn't much publicity about it.
But...gah!...perhaps I'm being cynical, and my mother always told me never to look a gift horse in the mouth. And so, Happy Caribbean Heritage Month to all of my West Indian brothers and sisters in America. And if you're interested in hearing more of what's actually going on in the Caribbean, be sure to check out the blogs of talented women like Attillah and Georgia and Elspeth and Titilayo and so many others. You'll be glad you did.
Contributing Editor Karen Walrond also blogs at Chookooloonks, The Pan Collective and Emerald Market.
