The Tribune

By Kathryn Campbell

SENATOR the Hon Jamal Moss yesterday appealed to C V Bethel Senior High School students to cherish their opportunity to receive an education and take it seriously as it is a consequence of Majority Rule.

He addressed the school’s assembly on the topic ‘The Significance of Majority Rule – Its Significance to The Bahamas’.

“Students let me remind you that the quality of education you’re receiving is a result of Majority Rule. Education for the black majority was not a priority for the ruling oligarchy and so access to secondary and tertiary education was severely limited. Most black Bahamians had to leave school at the age of 14,” said Mr Moss. “After Majority Rule was achieved, education became a top priority and the doors were opened for Bahamians to receive secondary and tertiary education at home. So please don’t take your education lightly; value it, and if you’re not serious about it, get serious.”

Majority Rule Day is recognised in The Bahamas on January 10 and commemorates the day in 1967 when the black majority living in The Bahamas won a national election and had their numbers fairly reflected in the way that parliament was constituted.

In his address, Mr Moss outlined key events in the road to Majority Rule including the Burma Road Riot, formation of the Progressive Liberal Party, the General Strike, the right for women to vote for the first time and Black Tuesday.

He remarked that without Majority Rule, The Bahamas would not be the “vibrant” country that it is today and independence would only be a dream. He said Majority Rule changed this and opened the door to provide bright, new prospects for the future.

Mr Moss recalled his appointment to the Senate following the 2017 General Election. “Who would have ever thought that a barefoot boy, the child of a maid and a construction worker, would become an Honourable Senator?”

He said his appointment is the result of the struggle of ancestors who fought against racial discrimination and inequality.

Mr Moss reminded the students that what happened for him could also happen for them. “Students, hold your head up high and embrace your “Promised Land” of opportunities. Be the positive change your country needs. Be a part of building a positive Bahamas.”