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by pltm
(PLTM) - While it is important to consider the economic and political impact produced by the imposition of direct rule, Amberly Crabbe one of the panellists supporting the “No Suspension of Our Constitution” movement is of the view that the psychological impact must also be considered.
Crabbe, in an exclusive interview with BVI Platinum News discussed the possible psychological implications.
“With the direct rule decision by the U.K, we are going to lose our sense of identity. One of the greatest challenges I find that we have been experiencing as Black people is still trying to deal with the fallout of slavery. Going back to the British during this modern time, we will be struggling with the issue of having something only recently and not having it anymore,” Crabbe stated.
She also mentioned that the people of the Virgin Islands will have to contend with their freedoms being curtailed in various areas of their lives in spanning economic, political and recreational activities.
When discussing the psychological impact on future generations from direct rule, Crabbe noted that, “for the children, their psychological problem will come when they grow up and have to deal with kids of their own.
“And for us adults, it will almost be like we are our ancestors over again and the children will be us. So, we will be creating generations of people who don’t have a sense of identity, and who don’t have a sense of belongingness,” Crabbe stated.
She continued by stating that some persons are still having difficulties with knowing and valuing themselves as a people, and explained that the mental and psychological ramifications will be compounded by the suspension of the democratic process, which she argued is an additional reason for opposing a Governor-led government.
On Sunday, May 1, scores of residents attended a panel discussion under the theme “No Suspension of Our Constitution” at the Althea Scatliffe Primary School.
The event which also streamed online focused on the potential economic fallout, and the political regression that will result from direct rule by the British.
Persons expressed concerns about the majority of the Virgin Islanders who are employed in the public service will be made redundant if the Governor is to be solely responsible for directing the political affairs in the Virgin Islands.
The persons in the audience unanimously opposed the recommendation outlined in the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) Report to partially suspend the constitution for a minimum of two years. The general sentiment was that this would represent a backward move away from self-governance, and toward British colonialism.
