10/10/2022
Turks and Caicos, I love you and I believe in you!❤️
These past few weeks have brought a lot of shocking activity atypical to these islands right at our doorsteps. Undoubtedly, it has caused concern, fear, worry, and pain among us all.
None of us take this lightly, and I personally grieve along with all those who have been directly and indirectly affected by these heinous and unsettling actions. My prayers are with you, your families, and your communities.
Today, we celebrate National Heritage Day. It is a day of reflection on our culture as a people and the fabric of who we are as a nation.
Lawlessness is not synonymous with Turks and Caicos, and we will never sit back and allow anyone or any group to infiltrate our beautiful country and make it so. We will fight to maintain the peaceful and community-driven nature of our islands which we are proud to say is still one of the most welcoming destinations one can visit and call home.
With the significant support we have received on the ground and the dedication and fearlessness of our local authorities, we are confident that we will rid these shores of this scourge.
This has sparked an important national conversation, one I hope will continue as we learn from what this teaches us and awakens us to what needs to be done internally.
We are a small but resilient country, full of pride and full of heart. We are a kind, loving people - so much so that those who have visited and come to love it here know many of us by name and consider us friends and extended family.
Let us not allow those who seek to destroy the spirit of these islands to win. Let's stay strong and united for ourselves, and for those who have come to love these islands as their home.
To me, it is and will always be, the best place in the world.
Happy National Heritage Day, Turks and Caicos. 🇹🇨
