"Building a Seamless Dominica, in which overseas and resident Dominicans effectively dismantle their social and psychological barriers in the interest of all, is a task long overdue. Because these barriers are of our own making, we can remove them easily, if we are willing". (Raglan Riviere)
Letter to Ministry for Diaspora Affairs
Dear Permanent Secretary:
We are aware of a less than cordial relationship between some Dominican nationals at home and overseas. This is viewed as counter-productive and believe it is time that we try to unite the Dominican family throughout the world to the benefit of our beloved country.
We recognize that this disunity has persisted for some time, is attributed to several causes and will require ongoing effort for its amelioration. A group of nationals, from home and overseas, are getting together to find ways to do just that. We are positioned, therefore, to launch a project aptly named Building A Seamless Dominica to coordinate this effort.
However, we believe that an Official Policy Statement on Diaspora Relations from the Ministry responsible for Diaspora Affairs would be very helpful. This Statement can take the form of a Cabinet declaration, which essentially states that living overseas does in no way deny or deprive Dominica nationals their right to participate fully in the development of their homeland, to which they have pledged their Allegiance. The numerous contributions in cash and kind from the Dominica Diaspora over many decades attest to that allegiance and national spirit.
Grateful you obtain this Official Statement from the appropriate authority in support of the project. We would appreciate a response as soon as possible, and preferably within two weeks, when the project is due to launch. You will be kept informed of our progress.
Respectfully submitted.
Raglan Riviere,
Designated Programme Coordinator, Building A Seamless Dominica;
DAAS Diaspora Relations Committee.
February 03, 2010
"Before God and all mankind, I pledge allegiance to the flag of the Commonwealth of Dominica and to the Sovereign Republic for which it stands; my love, my loyalty and skills, in the service of Dominica and my fellow Citizens. I promise to work diligently and help build a prosperous and peaceful Nation." - (Dominica Pledge of Allegiance).
