He reminded nationals during his Independence address at Elquemedo Willett Park in Charlestown, on Monday, (20th September) that they had come from the old days of colonialism to an independent nation, with many opportunities available to them today.
Parry said that Nevisians should “Celebrate what is wholesome in our community and let us not try to copy things that are practiced in the developing world but let us hold fast to what we have in these Caribbean islands and our culture.”
He said it was important for Nevisians to embrace the afro centric practice of the extended family and spirituality. Parry stated that there was a strong need to worship God and embrace the community in order to stamp out crime and give direction to the young people, to have pride in themselves and their island.
The Premier said that persons in the field of agriculture, sports and politics have built a foundation for Nevis and according to him it is a base for young people to climb off and climb higher.
He said that it does not matter which island one comes from, it is the vision that they have, along with the creativity and ambition, to broaden their horizon. He told Nevisians that they must feel big, feel tall and they must feel equal to any in the world.
During his address the Premier paid tribute to three outstanding Nevisians who were awarded for their contributions to the development of the island. He also recognized the remarkable academic performance of young Nevisian, Miss Kurlyn Merchant who recently completed legal studies at the University of the West Indies, receiving straight A-grades and being placed first in her class, graduating with First Class Honours.
He said that there was a new wind blowing in the country, a wind of ambition, pride, creativity and achievement.