Historian Dr Claudius Fergus calls cancellation of Independence parade a major loss

ANGELO JEDIDIAH

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The government’s decision to cancel this year’s Independence Day parade and fireworks has been described by historian Dr Claudius Fergus as a major loss for the nation.

Speaking on CNC3’s The Morning Brew on Monday, Dr Fergus questioned the replacement of the parade with a national day of prayer and reflection. The UNC-led administration cited security concerns for high-profile officials as the reason for the change.

Dr Fergus avoided commenting on the political justification but said the parade carried a significance that should not be overlooked.

“It’s a wonderful spectacle. But independence parades are particularly important in T&T, because Independence Day falls within the school vacation. Jamaica has a similar situation. Now, most of the other former British-ruled colonies that I know about declared independence during the school term. And so it’s easy to involve and integrate children into the commemoration of independence in real time. So that the pre-emptive military displays, I think, would affect the way that children feel about independence,” he said.

He added that while prayer has its place, it cannot carry the same symbolic power as the parade.

“Prayers as a substitute, I don’t think it would be adequate in any context. This is a multi-religious society, which means that people come together on occasions for public prayer events. But a substantial proportion of the population would not see any value in prayers as a political celebration.”

Dr Fergus said Independence is a special opportunity for children to experience patriotism and pride in real time, and he called on schools to play a greater role in marking the nation’s 63 years of achievements, including free healthcare, universal secondary and tertiary education, and major infrastructure development.

“We need to get the children involved. So when school reopens, that’s one of the things that school can do…celebrate independence in some way,” he said.

“You don’t need military parades. You don’t need the guns. Many schools have scout groups, girl guides groups and so on….also bring a kind of joy. Any uniform procession brings joy to people. So, you know, organisations can come together and celebrate our independence.”