Deputy Government Commissioner Alida Francis. (Photo courtesy Alida Francis)
ST. EUSTATIUS--“2020 will be a year forever engraved in all our memories, as it has fundamentally challenged the way we do business,” said Deputy Government Commissioner Alida Francis in her Christmas message to the community of St. Eustatius.
The island has been through a lot this year, Francis said. “Ours are a resilient people that have, over the years, withstood all manner of storms. We are going to get through this together, as long as we all stand and work together in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said.
“Last year around this time, it was impossible to foresee all the changes and challenges the coronavirus pandemic has brought to virtually every aspect of our lives. As public entity St. Eustatius, it is our duty to take difficult and sometimes unpopular decisions, to do what is right to protect the people of St. Eustatius. Because of these decisions, Christmas was able to be celebrated on the island in a somewhat normal way.”
Francis said this is “sadly” not the case for people in many countries around the world who cannot gather with their loved ones to celebrate this festive season. She asked everyone to keep these persons in their thoughts.
With all that is going on around the Caribbean and the world, the meaning of Christmas has not changed, she said. “Christmas is about the expression of love and compassion. It is a time of reflection, of reverence, a time to reconnect with the ones we love. As an island, we must deepen social solidarity,” Francis said.
She encouraged everyone to continue to reach out to others and provide comfort and support wherever they can, as well as promote love, generosity and compassion during this festive season.
While celebrating the Christmas season, she encouraged everyone to adhere to COVID-19 regulations and protocols at all times, to ensure that everyone takes responsibility to prevent the spread of this disease. “While we have done fairly well thus far, we cannot afford to be complacent and let our guard down.”
On behalf of the public entity, Francis wished everyone a joyous and safe holiday season. “The government looks forward to serving and partnering with the community in the coming year,” she said.
