Even as plans for 2026 take shape, Dr Dave Ray has begun setting the tone for his tenure, using the Christmas season to issue a message centred on unity, service, and nation-building.
In his Christmas message to the diaspora, Ray encouraged reflection on the challenges of the past year and urged Antiguans and Barbudans abroad not to allow political division to undermine collective progress.
Calling on overseas nationals to “raise the standard, raise it boldly” and to recommit themselves to the work of building “a true nation,” Ray framed the diaspora not as distant observers, but as active partners in Antigua and Barbuda’s development.
“As your appointed Diaspora Liaison, I implore you all to commit to working with me on projects great or small for the furtherance of our country’s development,” he said, stressing that his role is rooted in service. “I’m here only to serve, and nothing more.”
Ray’s message comes as the Government of Antigua and Barbuda formalises its approach to diaspora engagement with his appointment as a dedicated Diaspora Officer.
Foreign Affairs Minister E. P. Chet Greene said the role is intended to strengthen relationships with Antiguans and Barbudans living overseas, moving engagement beyond traditional consular services toward a more structured and strategic framework.
Greene explained that the government recognises the diaspora as a critical partner in national development, with potential contributions in areas such as investment, skills transfer, entrepreneurship, and community development.
As part of this renewed focus, government plans are already underway for a Diaspora Business Forum to be held in St. John’s in 2026, with the timing expected to align with the Carnival season.
According to the minister, scheduling the forum during Carnival is a deliberate effort to make participation easier for diaspora members who already travel home during that period, reducing the need for multiple trips while maximising engagement.
The forum is expected to provide a platform for structured dialogue between diaspora stakeholders, local businesses, and government officials, with discussions likely to focus on investment opportunities, national priorities, and practical avenues for collaboration.
Beyond the symbolism of appointment and seasonal messaging, the creation of a dedicated Diaspora Officer underscores the Government of Antigua and Barbuda’s view of its overseas nationals as stakeholders in national development.
The alignment of the planned 2026 forum with Carnival suggests an intention to integrate diaspora engagement into existing national rhythms, rather than treating it as a stand-alone exercise.
Equally significant is the emphasis placed on unity over division. By urging cooperation across political lines, Ray’s early messaging frames diaspora engagement as a national project rather than a partisan one.
Ray’s Christmas message, grounded in faith, service, and national responsibility, sets an early benchmark for how the role may function: accessible, inclusive, and action-oriented.
With a dedicated liaison now in place and concrete plans already emerging, the approach suggests that diaspora engagement is being repositioned as a year-round development strategy.
