The Not-So-Silent Generation: Caribbean Voices of Liberation
In the global north, the Silent Generation is the label given to individuals born between 1928 and 1945. Many were born during World War II; a notable characteristic is that they tend to hold on to traditional values and prefer stability. Reflecting on the Caribbean people who were born in that period, they were not silent. The 1920s and 30s were a generation that was born approximately 100 years after the emancipation of enslaved Africans in the British West Indies. They came of age in the 60s, led these British colonies to independence, and created distinct art forms and community institutions. Caribbean culture and its impact on social order were the topics of a lecture by Professor Anthony Bogues for the Rex Nettleford Distinguished Lecture Series. I viewed the lecture, which was streamed on YouTube, and a dance form a dance company that Nettleford started. It was heartwarming to see the 89-year-old PJ Patterson, former Prime Minister of Jamaica, giving the introduction. ...