In honour of us

During my brief tenure within the halls of Government, I understood the importance of being present at said National events. However, what I did not understand was that the majority of office holders clearly did not recognise being present at these events to be of equal importance.

During my stint, I attended at least two Independence Day parades. At each of these, less than 25 percent of the Government ministers were present, with an even less showing from those who sat in the Senate, without portfolios.

The Heads of Government and State are both mandated to be present as they both accept salutations from the presenting troops on parade. This alone should be impetus to ensure a full gathering of officials, if not in support of your country’s milestone, surely in support of your Government or Head of State.

Whilst this may seem a small item in the larger scheme of things, it is a vital part of the maintenance and respect of our National traditions.

Even as I attended whilst outside the corridors of government, the representation of office holders has always been less than adequate or acceptable.

This occasion is one of those where we are brought together by the summoning of a greater good, where we set politics and all other separatist agendas to the side for the celebration of country. As such, a few other areas to be noted in keeping with the tone of the event include the recognition and respect of military precision and timelines.

If you are an invited guest to this event, it is imperative to ensure you arrive on time as the military does not recognise ‘Trini time’.

The parade and marching orders will not wait on anyone, and those whom the salutes are afforded, are provided with enough support to ensure they are in position. It is rather irritating and quite rude, to be seen arriving after the primary salute receivers have arrived.

The National Anthem of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago is one of the most significant compositions to be played on this day. I have seen persons choose to continue walking or speaking or doing whatever they may have been doing whilst the National Anthem is being played.

The excuse sometime given is that they are not in the immediate proximity of the actual event.

Nevertheless, I urge, if not on any other day, do show respect for the National Anthem of the country of your birth. Even if you were with the many hundreds of citizens gathered on the periphery to catch a glimpse of the proceedings, set the example, and sing to the top of your voices, whilst observing the protocol attached to the Anthem.

This day brings families to the capital and many other major areas to participate in the ceremony.

Whilst it is understood that a high level of protocol and diplomacy is required in the undertakings of these parades, a certain measure of flexibility can be introduced, particularly when the parades enter the streets, and display their spectacle for the people.

All too often, I have seen unwarranted and poorly managed clashes between spectators and parade officials. Both parties must remember the reason for the occasion, to honour our Nationhood.