PRIME Minister Stuart Young has called for a deeper national understanding of the history and struggles of the Spiritual Shouter Baptist community, as the nation observes Spiritual Shouter Baptist Day on Sunday.
In his statement, Young said that he acknowledge the significance of the Spiritual Baptist community and their faith in the face of historical oppression. He also noted the significance of religious diversity in Trinidad and Tobago, as the Muslim community prepares for the sighting of the moon ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations, tomorrow.
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Reflecting on the country’s colonial past, Young highlights the trauma endured by African slaves and Indian indentured labourers under British rule. He stated, “Reflecting on the country’s colonial past, Young highlighted the trauma endured by African slaves and Indian indentured labourers under British rule.”
He suggested that recent research in neuroscience and social psychology could provide new insights into the long-lasting trauma effects of such historical injustices.
“A re-look at the 1917 Prohibition Ordinance, one may argue, tells us that the colonial authorities saw the ex-slaves’ forms of worship as too effusive, too boisterous and “not good enough” to worship their God. It is said that a people without God is a people incomplete,” Young stated.
To promote awareness, the Prime Minister announced plans to request the National Library (NALIS) to host monthly discussions across the country on the struggle and triumph of the Spiritual Baptist community and the other significant time in the history of Trinidad and Tobago.
Young reiterates the importance of educating citizens about the nation’s past, citing the contributions of former Prime Minister Dr. Eric Williams. “Our nation-state was founded by one of the most significant names in Caribbean history, Dr the Honourable, Eric Eustace Williams; we owe him that reward.”
“The history of this country should be on the lips of every citizen. Everyone should be able to recite and understand aspects of our broad, complex and exciting history.”
He adds, “I see this too as one of the functions of the Art and Cultural Innovation Council which I intend to establish to drive Trinidad and Tobago’s creative economy forward.
He stated, “This council will bring our cultural mosaic – our art, music, dance, and literature into focus, giving citizens and their families a general awareness and understanding of the art forms that live among us and the trends our artists are pursuing.”
Young stated, “As we examine our history, we will undoubtedly see that the Spiritual Baptist community has demonstrated an unshakable commitment to national development through the expressions of their faith which reveal the value of service-centred leadership, uniting for the common good and an adherence to discipline. Their spiritual practice enhances our understanding of Trinidad and Tobago’s shared identity and is a resounding reminder of the strength of our diversity.”
The Prime Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting the faith, referencing the allocation of state land and $20 million in grant funding towards the construction of a Spiritual Baptist cathedral, administrative complex, and heritage park.
He adds, “On behalf of the Government, my family and the people of Trinidad and Tobago I express my joyous acknowledgement of the enduring strength of the Spiritual Baptist community. I celebrate you and look forward to your continued contributions to Trinidad and Tobago and in particular to our New Chapter.”
“Today is a day of celebration and I know that citizens will stand side by side, with members of the Spiritual Baptist faith, as they converge, in prayer and jubilation across the country.”
