The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

“What more ya want boy?”

The question about what is Bahamian and what is not has been the most hypocritical conversation we have all the time. The name Junkanoo Carnival had its share of criticism because some said it was not Bahamian. But if you ask me, many things are not.

We have imported just about everything. All of our children would jump up and dance at the first chord struck in a Reggae song. They all of them and they love it. Most of us who are so sanctimoniously Bahamian would sprint to the dance floor because we love the Reggae and Soca so much. Say it isn’t so.

We are too hypocritical and have no shame either. Whenever there is a Soca artist in town, the venue is packed to capacity. When a little known Reggae artist is in town, the same things happen. But when a Bahamian artist, singing calypso is on a card, there is little support. What happen to the Bahamian pride then?

I know that a prominent promoter holds the top gospel awards; many of the awardees are from other Caribbean island. Is he not a Bahamian? But he is the main one who has the most to say. See how foolish we sound. Time to open up your eyes. All of the first world countries have gone global, but the third world countries have stayed stuck with the territorial narrow-mindedness.

Bahamas Junkanoo Carnival is as Bahamian as “Guinea corn hominy and lard!” It is an expression of our music, food, art and dance. All of us should be proud to rally around each other and celebrate all things Bahamian.

“What more ya want boy, ting-a-ling-a ling!”

CHIC CHARNEY

Nassau,

April 26, 2015.