On February 7th 1974, Grenada began a journey that has been characterized by periods of
success, triumph, challenges and at times, conflict. These attributes are synonymous with
the pain of delivery, the glory of birth and the rewards of growth.
Each year, on the 7th February, we celebrate another milestone of this journey, as step by
step, we march forward to adulthood. It therefore means that our growth and maturity
must form the basis for our development, as a nation.
St. Paul, in his writings, reminded us that we must leave the activities of children and
youth behind as we step into adulthood. At 37 years, we are crossing over the threshold
of youth, as a people.
We must therefore begin to seriously chart the course of our nation, determine our
destiny and commit to working harder, together, if we are to overcome our challenges
and increase our successes.
This year’s theme, “Celebrating 37 years through challenging times with optimism
and resilience,” acknowledges our hope that Grenada will emerge stronger from the
various crises that have impacted us over the years. We have a rich history of overcoming
obstacles and surmounting difficulties, which have helped to strengthen our resolve and
increase our confidence.
We must, therefore ensure that we build, together, a more tolerant society, in which we
can harness our strengths while accepting our differences. Our success will be dependent
on how strongly we exhibit a spirit of unity and sincerity as we forge forward, while
maintaining the values that underpin what makes us truly Grenadian. This is even more
crucial as we begin the second decade of the 21st century.