The courage, resilience and determination of the Indian indentured labourers who landed on our shores between 1845 and 1917 are critical to the survival of all of us in Trinidad and Tobago as we learn to adjust to the new normal that has been thrust upon us.
The intrepid immigrants hailed from various cities and regions across India, such as Bombay, Madras, Agra, and Bihar, and were an eclectic mix of peoples, customs, languages and beliefs, united in the pursuit of a better future. Fortunately for Trinidad and Tobago, many opted to remain after their contracts expired and planted roots here, continuing to work diligently to overcome sundry obstacles—social, religious, economic¬— and secure for themselves an equal place in their adopted homeland. Over the years, our nation has reaped the benefits of the hard work, perseverance and fidelity to heritage of those early pioneers. Beyond the outward cultural manifestations of music, food and dance that are now an indelible part of the mosaic that is Trinidad and Tobago, the values and principles that underpin their traditions have contributed to the strength, stability and prosperity of our country. As beneficiaries of their proud and lasting legacy, we must all ensure that the ties which unite us prevail over those which divide. On this 175th anniversary of the arrival of the Fatel Razack, we are inspired by the bonds of brotherhood that sustained those valiant voyagers both on their perilous journey to the New World and as they settled in an unfamiliar land. We, like them, find ourselves in challenging and uncertain circumstances and must forge ahead with vision, grit and hope for a favorable outcome. The restrictions that have curtailed today’s customary festivities must in no way dampen our spirit of celebration as we commemorate this most significant chapter of our country’s history. I extend sincere wishes to the Indian community and all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago for a happy, healthy and safe Indian Arrival Day
Fellow citizens,
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Mr. Efthmyios Efthymiades, Ambassador-designate of the Hellenic Republic (Greece) to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, presented his credentials to Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo ORTT, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, on October 15, 2024 at The President's House. Her Excellency welcomed the Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago and wished him every success in his new post.
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In delivering the feature address at the Sangre Grande Ramleela Committee's 34th Annual Ramleela Celebrations 2024 on Sunday October 13, 2024, Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo, ORTT, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, congratulated the committee on the hosting of the cultural event, and the fact that of the 175 players, 120 were young persons from various schools in the community, Her Excellency expressed, "How lucky we are in this country to be able to have all our citizens, of every religious persuasion, of every class, colour and creed, participate in this truly amazing Festival. Ramleela is a cultural, social and spiritual phenomenon which has enriched Trinidad and Tobago for many years. It is a time when entire communities come together to re-enact the life and times of Sri Ram as chronicled in the Ramayan. It is a wonderful opportunity for young people to become immersed in our religious and cultural traditions, and to have the opportunity to one day carry them forward. It is a time for everyone, the Hindus and non-Hindus alike, to reflect on and identify with many of the themes and moral lessons found throughout the story." #ramleela2024 #SangreGrande #officeofthepresidentt
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The Office of the President of the Republic of T&T
The Office of the President of the Republic of T&T is with Trinidad and Tobago Blind Welfare Association 1914.
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Message from His Excellency Kerwyn Garcia S.C., First Gentleman and Patron of the Trinidad and Tobago Blind Welfare Associationon White Cane Safety Day 2024—October 15, 2024Today, the nation and the rest of the world commemorate White Cane Safety Day. Observed annually on October 15th, White Cane Safety Day was first proclaimed and celebrated in the United States in 1964 and has since gained recognition worldwide. White Cane Safety Day serves to raise awareness about the use of the white cane as a tool of mobility and a symbol of independence and resilience for the blind and visually-impaired.The origins of the white cane date back to 1921 when James Briggs, a photographer from Bristol, United Kingdom, claimed to have invented it to enhance his visibility to motorists and pedestrians around his home. Throughout the 1930s, the use of white canes by the blind or visually impaired became more widespread in the United Kingdom, France, and the United States.In Trinidad and Tobago, as well as around the world, the white cane is used by the blind or visually-impaired as a tool for safe and reliable navigation. The white cane enhances mobility by providing users with tactile feedback about their surroundings, allowing them to detect obstacles, changes in surface texture, and other important information that facilitates safe travel. The white cane also signals to both pedestrians and motorists that the user is blind or visually impaired. It is important to recognize that the white cane is more than a mobility aid - it also embodies independence, resilience and hope. It empowers blind and visually impaired individuals to navigate the world with confidence and certainty. It serves as a reminder that everyone has the right to move through our world with dignity and safety.As patron of the Trinidad and Tobago Blind Welfare Association, I stand in full support of the Association’s efforts to advocate for the rights and dignity of persons who are blind or visually-impaired in Trinidad and Tobago. On this White Cane Safety Day, let us all take the opportunity to recognise and support our fellow citizens as they strive to participate in our society on a full and equal basis. #WhiteCaneSafetyDay #blindwelfareassociation #patronage #officeofthepresidentt
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#mondayinspiration Strength through adversity #ICYMI As we recognize Cancer Month, The Sunday Newsday ran an inspiring story of how Her Excellency Christina Carla Kangaloo ORTT, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago found her inner strength in the face of one of the most difficult times in her life. Here is an excerpt from the story by Carol Quash and you can click on the link for full story.TWENTY years ago, President Christine Carla Kangaloo came face to face with her mortality in the form of breast cancer.And although getting rid of the invasive and unwelcome visitor came with a myriad of challenges, it also taught her life lessons she might not have learned otherwise.“It did change my life," she said. "I would say it has strengthened me and made me deeply appreciative of life.“It showed me that there was strength I had that I didn't know I had; it taught me resilience; it taught me to lean on other people,” which can sometimes be difficult for women who are not used to allowing other people to see their susceptibility.
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President Kangaloo: Cancer made me stronger - Trinidad and Tobago Newsday
TWENTY years ago, President Christine Carla Kangaloo came face to face with her mortality in the form of breast cancer.
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The Office of the President of the Republic of T&T updated their cover photo.
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The Office of the President of the Republic of T&T's cover photo
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