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Following my post last Friday, this was the post I got from
Morning Yasmin, I read your column with great interest and need to enlighten you. Sometimes perception is perceived as truth and sometimes, when a story is repeatedly told, it changes and so does the truth.
The 'closing of the gates' and persons having to leave the area of Freeport at dusk, had nothing to do with colour... it had everything to do with the 'bonded' status of Freeport. My parents moved here in the mid-1950's and lived during all of the changes and issues.
During the creation of an historical exhibit in 2004, I interviewed several persons... one being a Bahamian gentleman whom I fondly regarded and who sat on the political sidelines. When the matter of 'the gate' was discussed, he told me with a chuckle that it was a lie... used for political purposes. My mother would attest most adamantly that the gate was not used to keep the black Bahamians out! More lies!... Lies that have hurt our people, island and nation :-(
Regarding West End, I was still a youth, but spent and enjoyed many weekends there, as friends lived nearby and for me, it was my 'second home'. I recall serious labour issues, workers marching, etc. .... unrest! and as far as the airport was concerned, I can clearly recall drug smuggling being at the root of that evil.
Many issues have affected this island and this country... unfortunately, most of it, was created by man. Yes, we have endured natural traumas, but the long lasting ones that continue to permeate this country is caused by us... the officials we elect who serve themselves instead of this country... and our own 'what is in it for me' attitude, laziness, contempt and waiting for a handout [big brother to help us out].
Having said this, one should know that I was born and raised here. I am a first generation Bahamian. I fiercely love this country and have worked on many organizations throughout my whole adult life, trying to give back, trying to make a difference.
Most of my childhood friends would love to move back and retire here. We would love having them return as well, however, we have to make it possible by providing the right environment for them to do so. We need to change our immigration system and look at other areas to make persons feel welcome! Over the years, we have opened our hearts to friends from abroad... we now need to open our 'doors' and change our unfriendly policies.
Thanks for your communications, Yasmin... I know you too are doing your part to keep things going and to send a positive vibe in all circumstances, which is greatly appreciated! Keep up your good work!
Janet Albury:
Morning Yasmin, I read your column with great interest and need to enlighten you. Sometimes perception is perceived as truth and sometimes, when a story is repeatedly told, it changes and so does the truth.
The 'closing of the gates' and persons having to leave the area of Freeport at dusk, had nothing to do with colour... it had everything to do with the 'bonded' status of Freeport. My parents moved here in the mid-1950's and lived during all of the changes and issues.
During the creation of an historical exhibit in 2004, I interviewed several persons... one being a Bahamian gentleman whom I fondly regarded and who sat on the political sidelines. When the matter of 'the gate' was discussed, he told me with a chuckle that it was a lie... used for political purposes. My mother would attest most adamantly that the gate was not used to keep the black Bahamians out! More lies!... Lies that have hurt our people, island and nation :-(
Regarding West End, I was still a youth, but spent and enjoyed many weekends there, as friends lived nearby and for me, it was my 'second home'. I recall serious labour issues, workers marching, etc. .... unrest! and as far as the airport was concerned, I can clearly recall drug smuggling being at the root of that evil.
Many issues have affected this island and this country... unfortunately, most of it, was created by man. Yes, we have endured natural traumas, but the long lasting ones that continue to permeate this country is caused by us... the officials we elect who serve themselves instead of this country... and our own 'what is in it for me' attitude, laziness, contempt and waiting for a handout [big brother to help us out].
Having said this, one should know that I was born and raised here. I am a first generation Bahamian. I fiercely love this country and have worked on many organizations throughout my whole adult life, trying to give back, trying to make a difference.
Most of my childhood friends would love to move back and retire here. We would love having them return as well, however, we have to make it possible by providing the right environment for them to do so. We need to change our immigration system and look at other areas to make persons feel welcome! Over the years, we have opened our hearts to friends from abroad... we now need to open our 'doors' and change our unfriendly policies.
Thanks for your communications, Yasmin... I know you too are doing your part to keep things going and to send a positive vibe in all circumstances, which is greatly appreciated! Keep up your good work!
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