How the Diaspora Assists its Homeland

Some will, no doubt, argue that to say "Overseas Dominicans are not really welcome back home" is grossly exaggerated. Maybe they are right. Not only that, the statement is a general observation which may not reflect the true picture. We know we are welcome for national day celebrations, the world creole festival, carnival celebrations, and such other festivities.

These are special occasions when we return to be with relatives and friends and to enjoy the 'fêtes' for which Dominica is famous. Of course, these are brief visits when we return to spend as much as possible in the economy. But we depart when the party is over. This may sound uncharitable, but, there is some truth in saying, we are welcome to visit and spend our money, then leave as tourists are expected to do.

That brings me to examine how Diasporans assist their homeland. From what is known, most assistance from overseas Dominicans are tangible: money and goods to families, bank deposits, building retirement homes, setting up businesses, donating money, equipment and medicines to health and welfare facilities and occasional expert help in times of emergencies. Such tangible assistance, though significant, are only temporary and remedial.

However, the Diaspora can play a greater, more fundamental and integrated role in the development of their homeland. To execute this kind of assistance, the Diaspora will require acceptance as an equal partner with Dominicans at home. This status should be acknowledged by a formal set of policies and procedures that define their relationship.

Ideally, Dominicans overseas and Dominicans at home should be considered as one seamless society, even though separated by sea. In fact, this is an objective of the Dominica Academy of Arts and Sciences (DAAS), which prepared and submitted a report in October, 2004 called Draft Dominica - Diaspora Policy Paper commissioned by the Government of Dominica. Why this Paper has not been given due consideration boggles the mind. To quote from the Paper,

"This symbiotic relationship is overdue and cannot long be delayed. But it must be one built on respect, dignity, understanding, cooperation and a staged approach within an agreed framework as to what is doable in the short, medium, and long term. It must be a relationship built on a trust that straddles political partisanship and engages the public in a respectful consultation towards attainable results to be shared among all segments of society. It is to be a long term relationship and not a "one shot deal" or addressed to a particular project. It must persist whether or not things get better or worse so long as the framework continues to be honored by Dominicans at home and abroad. It is an arrangement for the long haul, and mechanisms must be put in place to engage in a continuing link of emotional attachment, nation building and promotion of national interests among future generations of Dominicans, at home and abroad".

The role of Diasporas in the development of their homelands are well documented. The Caribbean, in particular Jamaica, is only now catching up with the rest of the world, in officially recognising this vital role. Hopefully, other Caribbean countries, like Dominica, will open their eyes.

Continue