Port-of-Spain: Why do we celebrate Community Development Day? Community Development means many things to many people. Development in communities is an integral element of national development. The ecosystem of a community and its development can be defined in many ways for example adequate schools, the protection of indigenous culture and heritage and economic sustainability. There are countless stories that can be shared about the impact Community Development has had on individuals and communities.
According to Community Development Minister Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly “It is really about connecting people to their passion and creating opportunities for community sustainability. In January 2020, we launched the National Policy on Sustainable Community Development which provides an outline to support community efficiently and effectively.” Additionally “We know and understand that community development will not be possible without you, the people, who are our greatest asset. And so, each year on July 5th we pay homage to Community Development as we recognize the indispensable role the community sector plays in the social and cultural tapestry of our national development”.
Community Development is truly a celebration of ‘All that is We’ and it is articulated through the Ministry’s many community based programmes such as the Community Education and Skills Training Programme and the Prime Minister’s Best Village Trophy Competition; the establishment of Community Facilities such as Community Centres ,Civic and Regional Complexes, Community Engagement Activities and Community Festivals. These initiatives are multi-tiered in scope and while they promote and inspire communities to showcase and preserve their heritage through craft, food, drama, dance and music, they also seek to promote innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainability.
Community Development Day, which is usually celebrated as various Community Festivals throughout Trinidad, will this year be celebrated virtually. The Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts will be discussing what Community Development means and the work of those tasked with facilitating and supporting the development of sustainable, resilient, culturally rich communities. We’ll take a journey back to CARIFESTA 2019’s Community Festivals, held at Caroni, Point Fortin, Arima, Mayaro, Valencia and Princes Town to commemorate the day. The video will also explore ‘All that is We’ through our community development experience. On July 5, 2020, log on to the Ministry’s Facebook page @artsandculturett and website www.cdca.gov.tt to view “All that is We” in recognition of Community Development Day 2020.