By: Kenny Bailey
As an active member of the Vincentian Diaspora residing in North America and an ardent commentator on Vincentian politics, I recently found myself in an intriguing conversation. A friend challenged my political involvement, pointing out the geographical and fiscal distance between my current place of residence and St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), the land of my roots. His jibe, casual as it might have been, nudged me into introspection about SVG’s complex, often paradoxical relationship SVG shares with its diaspora.
We, the Vincentian Diaspora, maintain a relationship with our homeland that, at times, feels much like a delicate dance of convenience. Picture the typical Friday afternoon scene in Kingstown: money remittance outlets humming with activity, people queuing in anticipation to collect the cash sent by their overseas kin. The magnitude of these remittances is astounding. According to 2021 data, remittances account for a significant percentage of SVG’s GDP, translating to a staggering 68.98 million U.S. dollars. This amount translates to $188,097,480.00 EC.
In addition to these financial infusions, there are countless barrels filled with goods shipped across the ocean. These barrels, tangible symbols of the unbreakable connection between SVG and its overseas community, are another testament to the diaspora’s commitment.
Yet, there seems to be an unspoken rule: the diaspora’s worth lies primarily in their financial contributions. We are appreciated by some when we send money and goods, especially around the festive Christmas season. However, when we attempt to engage in SVG’s political discourse, we’re subtly reminded to “mind our American business.”
The irony of this situation is glaring. How can a community so crucial to SVG’s economic health, whose contributions directly affect the country’s welfare, be expected to remain silent on issues concerning their homeland? Our financial contributions are not mere charitable handouts; they signify our unceasing commitment to SVG’s growth and prosperity. It seems only right that we should have a say in the affairs of the land that continues to pulsate within us, no matter how far away we may be geographically.
The dismissal of the diaspora’s involvement in political discourse undermines the value of diverse perspectives and global experiences. Living abroad provides unique insights that can contribute meaningfully to SVG’s political dialogue. These insights could inform policy-making in key areas such as economic growth, education, healthcare, etc. Engaging in these discussions isn’t about meddling or intrusion. It’s about participating in decisions that shape the future of SVG. It’s about ensuring that the SVG we love and continually invest in is directed towards a prosperous future.
Yes, we live thousands of miles away. Yes, we don’t pay taxes in SVG. But our roots run deep in Vincentian soil. Our contributions extend beyond the financial. We, the Vincentian diaspora, play a pivotal role in shaping SVG’s narrative. Politics, much like remittances, is about more than just dollars and cents – it’s about the future of SVG, a future in which we, the diaspora, have a substantial stake.