The journey continues

The Fatel Razack brought a new labour force to assist in the economic development of Trinidad.

But it also profoundly changed our culture and Trinidad and Tobago society for the better.

If there is one lesson this country can teach the world, it is the fact that multiculturalism is an invaluable mode of life. All members of society will tomorrow be commemorating Indian Arrival Day, even as it singles out the contribution of one demographic of our society.

But Indian Arrival Day was not always on the calendar. While it has been celebrated among the East Indian community in Trinidad and Tobago for many years, it was not until 1994 that it was made an official public holiday. It was called Arrival Day. In 1995, it was re-named Indian Arrival Day.

In May each year, a host of activities occur, including the staging of re-enactments of the arrival of the Fatel Razack at various beaches throughout Trinidad and Tobago.

There is music and dance, and outstanding members of the community are honoured for their contributions to society.

Trinidad and Tobago’s observance of this holiday comes at a time when the idea of global migration flows and multiculturalism is under direct attack. The rise and scandalous tenure of US president Donald Trump represents a bold re-assertion of racist and close-minded ideas, premised on the idea that all immigration flows are detrimental not enriching.

The Brexit vote, which British voters will soon have a chance to reverse should they be minded, also gave us a taste of the power of the right to turn the world back in the wrong direction. There was the momentary reprieve represented by the clear victory of Emmanuel Macron in France. But next up is the election in Germany in which Angela Merkel — who has faced criticism from elements in Germany for her open-door refugee policy — will face the polls.

Comparing indentureship to immigration is of course not a completely sound analogy.

However, the historical process which saw members of the Indian arrive in these islands does shine a light on how societies are impacted when there are global flows.

Indian immigration to Trinidad spanned the period 1845 to 1917.

During this period, over 140,000 Indians were transported to the island. The journey was long and arduous and living conditions were deplorable. After disembarking at Nelson Island, the arrivals were fed and rested for a couple weeks and then sent to the various estates that had put in requests for them previously.

Today, we enjoy a society that is rich and complex, where all are aware of the cultures and traditions of others and, in large measure, where people live showing mutual understanding and respect; where, despite racial differences, we work together in harmony and peace. No one can doubt the contribution of the East Indian community to shaping the fabric of our society. Every single field of endeavour has been touched: politics, art, sport, music, science, commerce, law.

When Indian Arrival Day was first introduced, the holiday was somewhat controversial as it was felt that the arrival of all races should be commemorated. Indeed, there has been little rationalization of our public holidays in that regard. For example, they are still very much skewered towards a colonial, Christian view of life.

However, we are grateful for this specific day because of the clarity of the reflection it causes as well as its provocation of meaningful dialogue. What did it mean to arrive, all those centuries ago? And where has the journey now taken all of us? The holiday is a perfect occasion to reflect