2025 National Heroes Day Message from Prime Minister Terrance Drew of Saint Kitts and Nevis

The annual observance of National Heroes Day in St. Kitts and Nevis serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and unwavering dedication of the nation’s founding fathers. It is a day not merely to lay wreaths at memorials but to offer heartfelt gratitude for the enduring legacy of freedom, dignity, and nationhood they bequeathed. This year’s theme, “Perpetual Progress – A Sustainable Future in View: Independence 42,” emphasizes the ongoing nature of the struggle for a better future, a vision that extends beyond the present generation to embrace the aspirations of those yet to come. The national heroes, in their collective wisdom and courage, laid the foundation for a resilient, prosperous, and united nation, a foundation upon which subsequent generations are called to build.

From Sir Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw, who embodied the courage and sacrifice necessary for freedom, to Sir Caleb Azariah Paul Southwell, who championed the cause of workers and equitable progress, each national hero contributed a vital element to the nation’s foundation. Sir Joseph Nathaniel France prioritized the health and well-being of the people, recognizing its inextricable link to national strength, while Sir Simeon Daniel ensured the dignity and self-determination of Nevis within the federation, solidifying the unity of the two islands. Sir Kennedy Alphonse Simmonds, the nation’s living hero and first Prime Minister, exemplifies resilience and perseverance, his leadership instrumental in guiding the country toward sovereignty and navigating the complexities of a changing world. Together, these figures represent not just the past, but the ongoing challenge to protect and enhance their legacy, to build a future worthy of their vision.

It’s crucial to acknowledge that the struggle for independence and nationhood did not originate solely in the halls of power. It was born in the fields, villages, and homes of ordinary men and women, unsung heroes whose quiet acts of resilience and unwavering belief in a better tomorrow fueled the efforts of the national leaders. These individuals, once enslaved, dared to dream of liberty. Their collective strength and unwavering determination provided the bedrock upon which the national heroes could build their vision of a free and independent nation. Their stories, although often untold, are integral to the nation’s narrative.

The current generation faces different challenges than those of colonial rule and the fight for sovereignty. Today, the focus shifts to securing a future that is both prosperous and sustainable, to ensuring perpetual progress. This entails responsible stewardship of natural resources, embracing renewable energy, and safeguarding the environment for future generations. It involves transforming the economy to create opportunities for all, while simultaneously protecting the most vulnerable members of society. It requires building a just and equitable society where access to healthcare, education, housing, and justice are fundamental rights, not privileges.

Sustainability extends beyond environmental concerns and economic growth; it encompasses the well-being of the people. A sustainable future ensures that no young person is left behind, that workers earn fair wages, and that entrepreneurs are empowered to innovate. It fosters an environment where families can thrive, and where the nation’s rich culture and heritage continue to flourish as living testaments to its identity. The true measure of a sustainable future lies in the quality of life it provides for all citizens, present and future.

National Heroes Day is a call to action, a reminder to embody the courage, conviction, and hope of the nation’s founding fathers. It is a day to recommit to building upon their sacrifices, to writing the next chapters of the national story with purpose and determination. Future generations should look back and see a people who honored their past by securing the future. Every citizen is called upon to be a hero in their own time, not by seeking personal glory, but by serving faithfully, building diligently, and loving deeply the nation entrusted to their care. The legacy of the national heroes serves as a constant inspiration, guiding the Federation toward perpetual progress and a future blessed by Almighty God.