Dear Editor,

The time has come for Jamaica and the other Caribbean islands to unite as one nation, The United Islands of the Caribbean. This is not a far-fetched idea. If we are truly independent states, our economic growth and development should not hinge on how we are treated by larger, First-World powers.

For centuries Jamaica and the wider Caribbean have been exploited for our resources. From the sugar plantations of colonial times to today’s bauxite, tourism, and financial services, we have too often been the suppliers of raw materials and cheap labour, while others reap the long-term rewards. Sadly, regardless of which political party comes to power, the benefits rarely reach the average citizen. Instead, they enrich a small group of wealthy elites and their political allies, often through questionable business deals with foreign investors.

I could fill this argument with economic theories and technical terms, but I would rather speak plainly so that every Jamaican can understand. Yes, Caricom exists, but let’s be honest, it has become more like a mini–United Nations where endless discussions lead to little real action. While the Caricom passport makes travel easier within the region, true economic strength comes from shared industries, integrated infrastructure, and robust inter-island trade. We must create vibrant markets among ourselves so food becomes more affordable, jobs are created locally, and our people can prosper without depending on external powers.

Imagine a united Caribbean connected by bridges, tunnels, and modern highways where travelling from Jamaica to Trinidad is as simple as driving from Kingston to Manchester. Imagine a shared regional defence force that reduces dependence on foreign military aid and a unified disaster response system to better handle hurricanes and climate change. Too many believe progress means visiting First-World countries and admiring their achievements while our own region remains underdeveloped.

The Caribbean is a melting pot, and unity would finally make that identity a reality. But if it is truly a melting pot, why is English the only official language of Jamaica? Why are we not embracing our full regional diversity by promoting bilingual or even trilingual education so our citizens can freely communicate across the islands?

I welcome the recent US tariffs on the global market, not because they help us, but because they expose how dependent the world is on a single nation. America’s economic power is undeniable, but that should inspire us to build our own collective strength. A single island alone is easily ignored. A united Caribbean with one voice at the global table cannot be overlooked.

We owe it to ourselves and to future generations to think bigger. It is time for the Caribbean to step boldly into the future, one people, one nation, united as one.

St Aubyn Richards

clever2g@yahoo.com