PM Browne Urges Unity and Shared Responsibility in National Heroes Day Address

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has called on Antiguans and Barbudans to honour the nation’s heroes through their own contributions to national development, warning that building a more prosperous country requires effort from every citizen and resident.

Delivering the National Heroes Day address at Heroes Park on Monday, October 26, Browne said the sacrifices of those who helped shape Antigua and Barbuda should inspire present generations to embrace responsibility, reject division and create opportunities for others.

“Their legacy transcends political differences and stands as a source of enduring national pride,” he said. “Today we stand on their shoulders.”

The ceremony honoured Prince Klaas, Sir Vere Cornwall Bird Sr., Sir George Herbert Walter, Sir Lester Bryant Bird, Dame Georgiana Ellen “Nellie” Robinson and Sir Vivian Richards, the country’s only living national hero, who attended the observance.

Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, relatives of national heroes and students were among those present. Wreaths were laid in tribute to the six honourees.

Browne said their contributions, spanning resistance to slavery, the struggle against colonialism, education, political advancement and sporting excellence, demonstrated that a small country could achieve beyond the limitations of its size.

He argued that commemorating their achievements must also involve practising the values they represented.

“They answered the defining challenges of their generation. We must answer those of ours,” he said.

The Prime Minister outlined responsibilities across society, calling on teachers to inspire, parents to provide guidance and instil sound moral values, entrepreneurs to create opportunities and workers to contribute their skills to national productivity.

He also urged spiritual leaders to strengthen the nation’s moral foundations and encouraged young people to embrace education, discipline and excellence.

Parents, he said, must help their children pursue productive lives and steer them away from crime and delinquency.

Browne stressed that heroism also exists in everyday acts of service, including the work of healthcare professionals, farmers, teachers and parents, and in young people choosing responsibility over violence.

He called for greater attention to teaching national history so children understand the sacrifices behind the freedoms and opportunities they enjoy.

“A nation that remembers its past is very equipped to shape its future,” he said.

Turning to development, Browne reaffirmed his administration’s ambition to build an economic powerhouse, saying progress must improve lives across communities and provide meaningful opportunities.

He said the country’s future depended on a shared commitment to building prosperity, nurturing talent and rewarding hard work.

“Let us build with courage. Let us serve with integrity,” he urged.

Browne also appealed for differences to be handled without hatred, calling on citizens to recognise their common destiny.