Basseterre, St. Kitts, September 18, 2018 (SKNIS): Hundreds of persons traversed to the National Heroes Park, on September 17, to witness the unveiling of the statues that have immortalized the five nation builders, who contributed selflessly to the growth of St. Kitts and Nevis.
“They embody the very qualities and characteristics that have contributed to the positive development of our beloved Federation,” said Prime Minister, Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris, speaking at the unveiling ceremony.
The prime minister commented that the location was chosen as it is strategically positioned as a “highly visible welcome point and gateway to the rest of the island.”
Prime Minister Harris said that these national heroes must be properly honoured as they have made a significant contribution to the development of the Federation.
“It is even more important that we should do this not only once a year as we do today but that they stand tall all year round to remind us of those who have led the way for greatness,” he said. “As such, they are a daily reminder to all of us of what can be achieved if we live our lives well.”
He said that their time was spent with a sense of purpose “not seeking fame or wealth for themselves but focusing on their purpose: to create a better life for their people.”
“Their motivation was not a quest for personal glory or fame, but the defense of basic values and principles which they hold dear,” said the prime minister. “And, through demonstration of a sense of duty and selfless sacrifice, they go on eventually to win decisive battles that make a real difference in the lives of their fellowmen and women.
The heroes, who fought for social justice, respect for human dignity and other noble causes by ordinary men and women, fundamentally changed the course of history, said Prime Minister Harris. He added that they “contributed to making the world a better place with a better life for present and future generations.”
“The triumvirate of Sir Bradshaw, Sir Southwell and Sir France is best remembered for their advocacy and action on behalf of the poor and disadvantaged. France and Bradshaw loom large in trade unionism, politics and the struggle for self-rule and Independence. Comrade Southwell is credited with economic diversification, Sir Daniel with setting the modern platform for development of Nevis and Sir Kennedy as the first Prime Minister and for private sector-led growth and transformation in the 1980s,” said the prime minister.
It was noted that the five national heroes stand as inspiring symbols of hope.
“Where others see only thick, dark clouds, heroes see bright rays of light in the background,” he said. “When almost everyone says it can’t be done, heroes quietly demonstrate it can be done. For this reason, stories of heroism have always been a source of inspiration throughout human history.”
