This question has been at the forefront of discussion in at least two of Britain’s dependencies in recent months.
For the British Virgin Islands, a Territorial Song and National Dress have now been adopted, but for Montserrat, the search is on, again.
National symbols are emblems or icons intended to define or unite a community. As such, national symbols would represent the national people, values, goals or history. Countries would display their national symbols – flags, songs, dress, animals, flowers, plants, trees, food, drinks – during celebrations of patriotism.
For me, this begs the question: Why would dependent countries or colonies want to establish their own national symbol, since such already comes with their state of sovereignty?
The implementation of a Territorial Song in the British Virgin Islands is an ongoing lesson, for while the government insists that students learn it and sing it at school functions and also that it is sung before government ceremonies, there seems to be a challenge.
The song, “Oh Beautiful Virgin Islands” is great. In fact, I love it. Written by the brother and sister team of Ayanna Hull Brathwaite and Kareem Nelson Hull, the words are meaningful and cultural, the rhythm is infectious and it was perfectly rendered by Deanna Wattley.
The song speaks to the history of the islands, the ability of its peoples to overcome the pains of the past and preserve the beauty of the country, own lands and educate themselves. It also asks God’s continued blessings, courage for its leaders, wisdom and understanding for its people.
However, some people seem either to be not quite sold on this national symbol or are not au fait with the protocol that should obtain. So we have Myron Walwyn, BVI’s Minister of Education and Culture, expressing disgust and unbelief that many, including a Member of the House of Assembly at one point, continue to disrespect this national symbol.
According to what I understand, when the song is being played, one should sing, or not, but definitely stand aloof for the duration. So maybe some more education is needed on the topic.
In Montserrat, the Reuben Meade government earlier this month launched a National Song search to identify a symbol that would ‘be reflective of the spirit of the nation’.
Critics have said Montserrat should be focusing on rebuilding the country’s economy and the state of affairs of its peoples, after reeling for the past 17 years from the effects of an erupting volcano.
I personally support having a National or Territorial Song. It’s all about identity. And since an attempt was made 20 years ago to establish a National Song, this new attempt affirms that Montserrat is rising from the ashes in more ways than one.
As an aside, I really loved that song ‘Oh Montserrat’ and think that should be remade and become Montserrat’s National Song!
But whether there is a National or Territorial Song or not, the British National Anthem will still be played and the British Flag continue to be flown, unless of course these dependencies renounce that status. The British national symbols still supersede in terms of protocol. But a Montserrat National Song or a Virgin Islands Territorial Song for example will unquestionably evoke an incomparable sense of pride and patriotism in citizens.
Just look at the Americans when the U.S National Anthem is played!
Angela's Musings 