Every May 30 is a time of reflection for the people of Anguilla as they celebrate the Anguilla Revolution. It is now the 36th Anniversary of that event which saw an unprecedented time of unity among the rank and file of the population, as the Anguillians broke ties with St.Kitts-Nevis to pursue a path of self-determination.

We owe a debt of gratitude to all of the trailblazers and freedom fighters some of whom are now dead and others, though alive, are no longer in active politics or in leadership positions. The Official Parade on the Ronald Webster Park and other associated activities including the honouring of a number of persons are but a small tribute to those who risked so much in the name of freedom.

Those who emerged as leaders of the Revolution, activists and members of the Peacekeeping Committee or the Anguilla Council were ordinary citizens of the grassroots of the Anguillian society. They were unskilled in the art of politics and with no experience in public office but they were men (and women) of indomitable courage, dedication and determination.

They worked for the most part without monetary or other reward, save the joy and satisfaction it brought them to nobly and sacrificially serve their island at a time of national crisis. These leaders and other freedom fighters of yesterday are an inspiration to all Anguillians today and their spirit must encourage us to move on.

The Anguilla Council 1970 from L-R: Kenneth Hazel (dec.), Winston Harrigan, Russel Webster, James Woods (dec.), Wallace Rey (dec.), John Hodge (dec.), Jack Dear QC (dec.), Emile Gumbs, Reuben Hodge (dec.), Camile Connor (dec.) Atlin Harrigan, Ronald Webster and Collins Hodge (dec.).

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