My heart goes out to our brothers and sisters of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The La Soufrière volcano has disrupted lives and created concerns, not just for residents of our neighbouring sister island, but for Caribbean citizens at large.
The Alternative Peoples’ Party (APP) has been in constant contact with our Vincentian affiliates, and we share in the anguish that the people now feel. Our party will provide constant updates on what is taking place on the ground with the people, and we stand willing, ready and able to lend a hand in any way possible.
The La Soufrière eruption shows how connected we are as Caribbean people, and even more so, as Windward Islanders. Dominica, like St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has several active native volcanoes, therefore the ongoing volcanic eruption in St. Vincent affects us in the same way. This is a moment when our humanity should come into play, and our party reaches out to every Vincentian with empathy, love, concern and understanding.
Nature may have displaced us, but we can use the experience to solidify our fraternal Caribbean Identity. In that light, we will work with the authorities to help coordinate and execute logistics for hosting our fellow brothers and sisters from St. Vincent. We have already sent out invitations to our affiliates, and their friends and families who may wish to travel to Dominica. Therefore, statements by Dominica’s Hon. Prime Minister, Mr. Roosevelt Skerrit, regarding accommodation for those affected come as welcoming news to us. APP is ready to be part of the government’s team tasked with providing relief to our brothers and sisters.
La Soufrière reminds us of the supremacy of God. Let us, therefore, take time off for deep introspection on our place, as people, in the natural environment, as well as our responsibility to support each other. We pray that calm will return to La Soufrière in the Creator’s time.
May God protect and bless St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
Tahira Blanchard
Acting Political Leader.
APP – Steadfast. Engaging. Fair
