Senior history lecturer at the University of the West Indies, St Augustine, Dr Jerome Teelucksingh, says the divisiveness among Caribbean countries has not only weakened Caricom, but also continues to plague the West Indies cricket team.
Speaking at a day of remembrance for the citizens of Dominica, Barbuda and other countries of the Caribbean affected by hurricanes Irma and Mari yesterday, Teelucksingh urged that differences be put aside to help our Caribbean neighbours.
“The objections from some persons to help our unfortunate neighbours reflect the insularity, rivalry and petty jealousies that contributed to collapse of the Federation and Carifta. The bickering among our Caribbean neighbours has plagued our cricket team and has weakened Caricom,” he said.
Teelucksingh said it was ironic that in North America and England, citizens joined Caribbean and West Indian associations and embrace other Caribbean migrants.
He was applauded by members of the congregation when we said Jesus Christ never discriminated against anyone, nor did he question the nationality or ethnicity of anyone who needed to be healed.
“Even when he was dying on the cross, the son of God told the thief, ‘Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.’ Many of us refuse to allow entry of our Caribbean neighbours. When we die, suppose the gatekeeper deny us entry to the Kingdom of Heaven?
“... I ask today — where are the Good Samaritans in our society? Many of us claim to be religious but by our actions and statements we often do not reflect the teachings and beliefs of our religion.”
Teelucksingh, whose father is former independent senator and Presbyterian Minister Rev Daniel Teelucksingh, said during the past ten years as a lecturer he has tutored students from across the Caribbean and Central America, adding they are always eager to promote regional unity and grateful for the opportunity of tertiary education.
“Let us not believe that T&T has economic problems and unable to help. Whatever small we can give, we must offer to these victims of natural disasters – earthquakes and hurricanes,” Teelucksingh said.
He also commended Interim Rector of the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Port-of-Spain, Fr Carl Williams, for condemning the xenophobia sparked by Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley’s call for citizens who could to open their doors to Dominicans affected by Hurricane Maria.