AN OPEN LETTER TO CM OSBOURNE FLEMING

Hon. Mr. Osborne Fleming
Chief Minister
Chief Minster’s Office
The Valley
Anguilla BWI

Dear Mr. Fleming:

Re: UN Decolonisation Meeting in Anguilla

Your administration has been afforded one of those rare opportunities that come around once in every lifetime.

I cannot begin to tell you how thrilled I was when I learned of the upcoming UN Decolonisation Meeting in Anguilla.

I’m sure your administration will do everything in its power to ensure that Anguilla receives the best representation possible. For that, as a young Anguillian, I say thank you.

However, I would like to make a recommendation that I think would benefit the development of Anguilla’s youth and further aid in the strengthening of our young democracy. The UN System cherishes the thought of getting youth involvement in their discussions, meetings or conferences. I strongly believe Anguilla can make a justifiable argument to have a young Anguillian address the Decolonisation Forum. This can be done during the opening session or one of their break sessions (lunch or dinner sessions are usually used). The selected young Anguillian can be afforded anywhere from 3-5 minutes to give a ‘youth perspective’ on the issue of independence. Such discourse gives insight on key policy issues that is not usually present at such forums.
This young Anguillian should be selected by the Government in consultation with NGOs in Anguilla. I would usually suggest that this responsibility lies with the President of the Anguilla National Youth Council, but I’m not sure that the ANYC is currently in operation. If it is indeed functioning, then I’ll recommend that the ANYC President be given the task of representing the nation’s youth. The president’s speech should be the collective views of the islands NGOs. Hence a collaborated speech should be written and delivered.

In my years of service representing the youth of Anguilla…..I’ve had the distinct privilege of speaking alongside Anguilla’s elected officials. Let us continue the practice of nurturing of our island’s youth; I’m confident that we can find a creative way of including them in this vital UN Meeting.

This is only a recommendation, but from personal experience, I know we would be a better nation if we work hard to ensure youth participation. I encourage your administration to continue the work of empowering our nation’s youth.
My prayers go with you as you address the UN Decolonisation Committee on an issue that has grave consequences for Anguilla’s future development.
This letter is copied to the press of Anguilla with the express purpose of mobilizing youth interest in this issue.

Best wishes,
Signed
Bren Romney

cc: Anguilla’s Press