by Wendy C Grenade, PhD
The Grenada Revolution (1979–83) remains one of the most defining periods in the Caribbean’s post-colonial history.
Despite its tragic demise, the significant accomplishments of the People’s Revolutionary Government (PRG), in four and a half years, cannot be denied: an international airport; highly trained professionals, such as: agronomists, doctors, dentists, veterinary specialists, engineers among others; grassroots democracy; adult literacy; agro-processing and asphalt plants; women and youth empowerment; linkages among agriculture, education and new tourism, and other long-lasting accomplishments. Notwithstanding the excesses of the revolutionaries and the human rights violations, the positive legacy of the Grenada Revolution has left an indelible mark on Grenada. Elsewhere, I have reflected on and critiqued the revolutionary period.
In this article, I will specifically address the role of Cuba in Grenada’s development and the imperative for Grenadians to stand by Cuba in this difficult period.
On the occasion of the 47th anniversary of the making of the Grenada Revolution, as world events unfold, Grenadians and Caribbean people are forced to ask, “is a better world possible?” In hindsight, the Cold War (with all its machinations) was a relatively stable, predictable world. What we are witnessing today is a new world (dis)order where the unprecedented is fast becoming the norm in world affairs. For small developing states, such as those in the Caribbean, this historical moment calls for conviction, courage and collective action. The Caribbean’s response to Cuba exposes the contradictions and possibilities that characterise our civilisation.
For decades, Cuba has been a global leader, with its internationalist outlook, humanitarianism, health diplomacy and its deep capacity to sacrifice in the service of others. Currently, the Cuban Government and people are facing severe challenges that pose a direct threat to lives, livelihoods and indeed to the Cuban way.
As we commemorate the making of the Grenada Revolution, there is need to reflect on the positive role Cuba has played in fostering inter-generational well-being and societal transformation in Grenada. Over the years, numerous working-class families were able to transcend the poverty trap because their daughters and sons received scholarships to train in Cuba. The Maurice Bishop International Airport is a lasting legacy of the Grenada Revolution. The Cuban Government and committed Cuban patriots toiled tirelessly to build that international airport. In the post-revolutionary era, Cuba has remained one of Grenada’s most dependable development partners. Its contribution to the health system is irrefutable and, in the short-term, perhaps irreplaceable. In the areas of sports and culture, Cuba has given tremendous support to Grenada and indeed to the Caribbean.
As geopolitical pressures mount, the Cuban regime is under threat even as its people are confronting perhaps their worst humanitarian crisis in modern times. This is not the time for Caribbean Governments to abandon Cuba. This is not the Caribbean way. It is not who we are. Some may argue that the consequences are too severe if we choose to stand with Cuba in its difficult moment. I share a different view. There must be a more humane negotiated settlement. I firmly believe that no Caricom country can face such harsh geopolitical pressures on its own. In this new dispensation, collective diplomacy is an imperative for collective resilience. Perhaps more than ever before, the art of foreign policy requires collective will and collective skill. Despite the realities of our time, Caribbean governments should exercise principled pragmatism. This refers to a leadership and decision-making posture that balances moral conviction with a realistic assessment of possible outcomes, in a given context. Caribbean governments should also be diplomatically nimble, combining resistance with strategic adaptation. In essence, from inception, one of the core pillars of Caribbean foreign policy has been the capacity to adapt to a changing world.
Geopolitical tensions are not new. Let’s recall, given ideological pluralism and harsh global realities, Caricom was extremely divided during the 1970s and 80s. In fact, Caricom Heads of Government did not meet for 6 years (1976–82), and the regional movement almost died in its infancy. It was in Grenada in 1989 that the Grand Anse Declaration revived the fledgling Caribbean Community. There is no doubt that Caricom is much too disunited at a time when unity is required. Equally, there appears to be lack of collective will and fear seems to be stifling courage. To quote Professor Justin Robinson, Caricom governments are “playing a weak hand in a rigged game.”
There is need to reinvigorate Caricom and ensure it is fit for purpose for these changing times. The Communities of Caribbean people have a responsibility to hold accountable the Community of Caribbean States. There is need for regional assemblies of people to engage in public education and activism to keep Caribbean governments in check.
What can we learn from the making of the Grenada Revolution to support the Cuban struggle today?
- Organised people and mobilised communities can effect positive change
- Courage, conviction and collective will can promote collective resilience
- Sacrifice in the service of others strengthens our equal humanity
- National and regional consciousness provide a foundation for solidarity
- Regional solidarity must be based on reciprocity
- When solidarity is broken, progressive efforts are reversed
- Reversal can lead to spill-over effects and unintended consequences
As the world turns, may we have the conviction to stand with the Government and people of Cuba in these difficult times.
Dr Wendy C Grenade is a Grenadian Political Scientist
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