In a nation that is still coming to full nationhood, it is perhaps natural that these controversies would, but with history as a guide, you would have though that they would have been more intelligently resolved. Abolish all holidays with specific ethnic bias from the public holidays calendar. If it is a public holiday, then everyone should feel a part and be able to participate. This immediately brings out the designated persons of mixed ancestry . Then in the late afternoon begins the National Day concerts featuring parades, performances etc., representing all the continents that have been thrown together on this isle.
Import acts from other places if necessary, to complement local acts.
An immediate stumbling block to ignorance and racism and a foundation for cultural appreciation. The show must of course be televised live, since no one must lose an opportunity to participate. These days are a part of the society and should not be forgotten, but in the context of Trinidad and Tobago, public holidays for such only make room for division, alienation of groups, increased racism and political expediency. In a country that is 90 or 95 percent of one ethnic group, it probably wouldn t matter. We must always be sensitive to and celebrate our rich diversity.