Republic Day: a call to patriotism through care and community

By Darrion M Narine

Programme Manager, CCSJ and AMMR

As Trinidad and Tobago commemorates Republic Day on September 24, it is a poignant time to reflect on our national identity and the responsibilities that accompany our status as a Republic.

This day does not merely mark a calendar event; it signifies a commitment to fostering an ethos of care—care for our home, care for our community, and care for our environment.

These commitments are foundational to our patriotism, intertwined with the very notion of republicanism that emphasises the welfare of the citizenry and the integrity of our common home.

The dignity of human life stands as a cornerstone in this discussion. As we face daunting challenges like crime and corruption, it becomes essential to recognise that the value of each life transcends these adversities.

The biblical principle, “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them” (Gen 1:27), reminds us of this intrinsic worth.

This scripture does not only affirm the sanctity of life but also calls us to action, urging us to see the face of God in every individual, especially those marginalised or caught in cycles of violence and retribution.

Our Republic’s journey has been marred by an unsettling desensitisation to violence—a peril that threatens our freedom and moral compass. The recurring narratives of murder and crime in our news cycles can lead to a weary acceptance of these as normal. However, as a people, we must resist this normalisation of violence and instead harness our collective voice against injustices that plague our society.

Taking a stance against injustice is not merely a civic duty; it is a profound act of patriotism, rooted in the biblical admonition to “Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed” (Psalm 82:3).

In rebuilding our communities, we must consider the role of community events not just as celebratory gatherings but as vital instruments of social cohesion and regeneration. These events provide platforms for dialogue, cultural expression, and mutual support, which are essential in fostering a sense of belonging and collective purpose.

They are opportunities to reinforce our shared values and mobilise community resources towards sustainable development and environmental stewardship. Our care for the environment, integral to our national health and prosperity, aligns with the scriptural call to “till and keep” the Earth (Gen 2:15), a command that underscores our role as stewards of God’s creation.

Moreover, our commitment to the republic implies a special concern for the troubled and marginalised youth. These young individuals often stand at the crossroads of potential and peril, and our patriotic duty is to guide them towards paths of promise and productivity.

This is not merely an act of redemption but a strategic intervention that can divert energies from destructive behaviours to constructive contributions. The biblical insight from Proverbs 22:6, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it,” serves as a guiding principle for our engagements with the youth. By investing in their futures, we invest in the future of our Republic.

As we celebrate this Republic Day, let us renew our pledge to not only cherish our freedom but to actively nurture it through an unwavering commitment to justice, community-building, and environmental stewardship. Let us remember that our strength as a Republic lies in our unity and our resolve to rise above adversities, safeguarding the liberties and dignities that define us.

In doing so, we not only honour our heritage but pave the way for a future where every citizen can thrive under the banner of freedom and justice.

The CCSJ asks for your support. Please donate:

Catholic Commission for Social Justice

Account #: 290 458 025 501

Bank: Republic Bank Ltd.

or you can contact us at:

admin.ccsj@catholictt.org