In D Pen Dance🇹🇹

As the smoke clears and emotions settle, what are we left with after 60 years of independence? Truthfully, what does independence even mean?! A few months into our diamond decade, I believe it's high time for a little reflection. Government agencies spending 80 million on cameras, broad daylight robberies and inflation ad infinitum. Where does this leave the general populace?

After neo colonialism and globalization, it feels like we are more dependent than ever on the powers that be. And what's worse, it seems like those individuals we've ‘selected’ to serve our best interests on the international stage are little more than pawns. There are brief moments in which it feels like we are the arbiters of our own fate, but they are often and too quickly eclipsed by the stark reminders of our place in this world.

‘They' take any opportunity to remind us of where we must be and what we must do to ensure that their global empire can continue to thrive. Is that what we are okay with being? I have no issues with that, personally, but it should be a more conscious and collective decision. Because on that note, how do we want to define being a Trinidadian? Is it all just good vibes and pretty woman? Again, not an issue if it is, but the conversation must be had. So let's have it. ‘Happy independence’ everyone.