As Tropical Storm Erin gains strength in the Atlantic, Differently-Abled Advocate Juante Kirby is urging the people of Antigua and Barbuda to meet the approaching storm with both preparedness and compassion.

“With Erin’s path threatening several Caribbean islands, we must act—not just with readiness, but with heart,” Kirby said. “This is the moment to be our brother’s keeper.”

Kirby highlighted the particular vulnerability of residents who live alone or face mobility and communication challenges.

“Storms don’t discriminate, but our response must be inclusive,” he stressed. “We cannot afford to overlook those who may not be able to evacuate themselves, secure their homes, or even call for help.”

He is calling on communities, churches, neighborhood groups, and local authorities to:
•⁠ ⁠Check in on differently-abled neighbors and those living alone
•⁠ ⁠Coordinate transportation for those who need evacuation assistance
•⁠ ⁠Ensure access to emergency communication for all
•⁠ ⁠Incorporate disability-specific needs in shelter and relief planning

Kirby also urged government agencies to make inclusive disaster response a priority, ensuring that emergency broadcasts and information remain accessible to citizens with hearing or visual impairments.

“Let us not wait until tragedy strikes to realize who we’ve left behind,” he said. “Antigua and Barbuda has always been a nation of resilience and love. Let’s prove it again—by showing up for each other.”

With Hurricane Erin approaching, Kirby’s appeal is clear: preparedness must go hand-in-hand with compassion, because in moments of crisis, humanity is the nation’s greatest strength.