Part 2
By Sue-Ann Wayow
THE birth of Jesus Christ, the reason for the Christmas season, was a challenge to the established order at the time.
“He was the promised redeemer who would rescue the masses from the oppressors,” says activist Phillip Alexander.
On Christmas Eve, he told AZP News, “In all the sharing and best wishes of the season let us remember who Christ was and what this significant birthday represented. Ours is a history from colonialism to slavery to now of oppression of the people. Of division and exploitation.
“My wish for Trinidad & Tobago is that we could wake up to our condition and unite for the greatest good for all of us. May the promise of massive change that the birth of Christ the Redeemer become manifest in this nation. Merry Christmas and a bright and prosperous new year to all.”
Minister of Public Utilities Marvin Gonzales shared, “My Christmas wish is that we truly appreciate God’s abundant blessings on us as a country and that we understand that our challenges are an opportunity to build a more united society to surmount the various challenges ahead especially in the areas of crime, violence, abuse of the vulnerable and climate change.
“May we all be inspired by the Christmas message of hope and love and reconstruct a united republic to confront these serious challenges that threaten us whilst we draw upon our unique strengths as we forge ahead to 2024.”
Remember the not so fortunate
Member of Parliament for Mayaro Rushton Paray said while Christmastime was a time of joy and hope it also calls for a moment of reflection on the challenges facing many of citizens.
He said, “This Christmas, my thoughts are with the families who find themselves in the shadows of our celebrations, those who have been impacted by the economic repercussions of the pandemic, particularly parents struggling to find employment. The dignity of work and the stability it brings to families are fundamental and it is imperative that we focus our efforts on creating more job opportunities and providing robust support systems.”
Equally alarming was the steady rise in crime, a symptom of deeper social issues that require not just immediate action but long-term, sustainable solutions the MP said.
Paray said, “This challenge calls for a united front, transcending political lines and involving all sectors of society, to address the root causes and create a safer environment for all our citizens.”
He continued, “My Christmas and New Year’s wish is for us to come together as a nation, with renewed commitment and collaborative spirit, to address these pressing issues. Let us harness our collective strengths, wisdom, and resources to create a brighter, more prosperous future for all.”
And citizens were reminded of the unique way in which Christmas is celebrated locally, having been introduced to the holiday some 500 years ago.
Member of Parliament for Chaguanas West Dinesh Rambally said in his Christmas message, “What has become a truly Christmas miracle is the way the celebration has been embraced by everyone.”
Mentioning the Christmas traditions celebrated, the food cooked, and music played he said, “Despite consumerism intruding on everyday life, where most things can be bought off the shelf, Trinbagonians still take great pride in cooking their own food and baking the Christmas staples. The cuisine and baked cakes and pastries are unique to our twin islands, so much so, that it makes its way to family and friends domiciled in other parts of the world.
Rambally also said, “I am fully aware that this year’s celebration may not be as enjoyable for some who have experienced personal hardships and loss. I wish them courage at this time.”
Messages of goodwill should all be learned and practiced especially during this time, he said.
“My hope is that people across the length and breadth of our country will enjoy a peaceful and happy Christmas which will also tide over into the New Year,” Rambally said.
See story on more Christmas wishes below:
