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Caribbean immigrants face new U.S. immigration wall that will cost jobs, money, and time
(BROOKLYN, New York): For Caribbean families trying to build stable lives in the Unit- ed States, the latest green card shift is not just bureaucratic fine print - it is a direct threat to mobility, family planning, and economic sur- vival. A new USCIS policy memo says adjustment of status should be treated as an extraor- dinary form of relief, pushing more applicants toward consular processing abroad rather than letting them finish their cases inside the United
States.
Fir starters temporary visa holders seeking permanent residence may now have to leave the U.S. and complete final processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country, with Caribbean applicants hit especially hard by airfare, time off work, and housing disrup- tions. That concern is grounded in the new US- CIS framing, which says adjustment of status is discretionary and reserved for extraordinary Continued on page 24
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INTERNATIONAL AND NATIONAL :::: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
The Trump administration has directed that any migrant seeking to get a green card must return to their home country to apply, effectively closing a loop- hole that allows migrants to re- main in the United States while awaiting permanent residency. On Friday, May 22, U.S. Citi- zenship and Immigration Ser- vices (USCIS) announced new guidance directing immigration officers to treat the transition from temporary nonimmigrant status to permanent immigrant status under Section 245(a) of the Immigration and National- ity Act as a process that should generally take place outside the United States.
Under the guidance, individ- uals seeking lawful permanent residency would typically be re- quired to return to their home country, complete screening procedures and obtain an im-
GREENCARD LOOPHOLE migrant visa through the U.S. Department of State before re- entering the U.S. as immigrants. USCIS Director Joseph Edlow emphasized the Trump admin- istration is reinforcing the dis- tinction between temporary en- try and permanent residence in ment of status process domesti- cally in "extraordinary circum- stances," with vetting conducted by USCIS officers rather than through the standard immigrant visa process abroad. The agency instructs immigration officers to weigh all relevant factors on a case-by-case basis when deter- mining whether someone quali- fies for this type of administra- tive relief.
Announcing the new guide- line on X, Homeland Security wrote: "An alien who is in the U.S. temporarily and wants a Green Card must return to their home country to apply. "This policy allows our immigration system to function as the law in- tended instead of incentivizing a statement.
"Under President Trump, US- CIS is returning to the original intent of the law and reinforcing the proper distinction between temporary admission and per- manent residence. Aliens who come to the United States temporarily and later seek perma- nent residency should pursue an immigrant visa through the proper channels in their home countries before being admitted as immigrants."
The document further states that individuals should only be loopholes. The era of abusing our nation's immigration system is over."
allowed to remain in the United States and complete the adjust-
CARIBBEAN NEWS BRIEFS Caribbean Regional News Roundup: Storms, Security, and Social Progress Shape the Headlines
U.S.-Cuba Tensions: The United States has significantly increased military pressure around Cuba, deploying aircraft carriers, destroyers, and amphibious groups into the Caribbe- an. The buildup comes amid U.S. efforts to choke off oil sup- plies, leading to widespread power outages and civilian suffer- ing on the island.
• Caribbean Response: The Caribbean Community (CAR- ICOM) has formally condemned U.S. threats and actions against Cuba.
• Counter-Narcotics Operations: The U.S. military has es- calated lethal strikes and interceptions on alleged drug-smug- gling boats in the Caribbean, raising safety concerns for local fishermen operating in the region.
• Western Caribbean Disturbance: A tropical disturbance is moving across the western Caribbean, bringing heavy rainfall and possible flooding to Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, Cuba, and the Bahamas.
• Sahara Dust: A massive plume of Saharan dust is sweeping across the Eastern Caribbean, bringing hazy skies and stifling hot temperatures to the Lesser Antilles and the Bahamas.
• Travel Advisories: The U.S. State Department maintains a Level 4 (Do Not Travel) advisory for Haiti due to ongoing turmoil, and a severe advisory for Trinidad and Tobago. Con- versely, popular tourist destinations like the Cayman Islands are sitting at a Level 1 advisory ("exercise normal precautions"). • Cruise Operations: Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas recently had to cancel a stop in Falmouth, Jamaica, and divert to Nassau due to a propulsion issue. Meanwhile, the Carni- val Magic returned to service from Miami following extensive dry-dock upgrades in the Bahamas.
Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026 caribbeantimes.com
FROM THE PUBLISHER :::: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Caribbean Times celebrates 10 years of serving the Caribbean community caribbeantimes.com
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June marks a significant mile- stone for Caribbean Times News- paper and CaribbeanTimes.com as we proudly celebrate ten years of publication and service to the Caribbean-American community.
What began in June 2016 as a vision to create a trusted platform for Caribbean voices has grown into a respected newspaper and digital news source serving read- ers across New York, the United States, the Caribbean, and beyond. Over the past decade, Caribbe an Times has remained commit- ted to informing, educating, and connecting our diverse commu- nity through credible journalism, community reporting, cultural coverage, and international news.
As a family-owned publica- tion, we have always believed that our community deserves a media platform that reflects its achieve- ments, concerns, traditions, and aspirations. From local events in Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and the Bronx to major develop ments throughout the Caribbean region, our mission has remained constant: to tell the stories that matter most to our people.
The growth of CaribbeanTimes. com has enabled us to reach read-
Jamaican Star ers around the world, providing daily news updates, sports cov- erage, entertainment features, business stories, and community information. Our digital presence has strengthened our ability to keep the Caribbean diaspora con- nected to their roots while staying informed about events shaping their future.
This anniversary is not only a celebration of our publication but also a tribute to our readers, advertisers, contributors, commu- nity leaders, and supporters who have stood with us throughout the years. Your trust, encouragement, and partnership have been instru- mental in our success.
As we look ahead to the next decade, Caribbean Times remains dedicated to excellence in journal- ism, community engagement, and the preservation of the vibrant voice of the Caribbean people.
On behalf of our entire team, thank you for being part of this remarkable journey. Together, we celebrate ten years of service and look forward to many more.
Dave Rodney, Anthony Turner Anthony Verona, Stephen Carr Roland Hyde, Gerry Hopkin, JD, Phyllis Wilson, Jean-Pierre Lomax, Sean Templar
Caribbean Times News (New York)
is the Diaspora's news publication for CTO-USA
Caribbean heritage is a rich blend of cultures, traditions, and histories that have shaped the identity of the Caribbean islands and their people. The Caribbean region is known for its diversity, with influences from Africa, Eu- rope, Asia, and Indigenous com- munities. This unique mixture has created vibrant customs, music, food, language, and celebra- tions that are admired around the world.
One of the most important aspects of Caribbean heritage is music. Reggae, calypso, Soca, dancehall, and steelpan music all originated in the Caribbean and continue to inspire people globally. Festivals such as Carni- val in Trinidad and Tobago and Junkanoo in The Bahamas show- case colorful costumes, energetic dancing, and cultural pride. These celebrations bring communities together and preserve traditions passed down through generations.
Caribbean cuisine is another symbol of the region's heritage. Dishes like jerk chicken, roti, rice and reflect the cultural influences that peas, and seafood specialties shaped the islands. Spices and fresh ingredients are central to Caribbean cooking, creating bold, memorable flavors.
The history of the Caribbean is also significant. The region has experienced colonization, slavery, and struggles for independence. Despite these hardships, Carib- bean people have shown resil- ience and strength. Many islands gained independence during the twentieth century, allowing their cultures and identities to flourish.
Today, Caribbean heritage is celebrated by millions of people both in the Caribbean and throughout the diaspora. Carib- bean Heritage Month, observed in many countries, highlights the achievements and contributions of Caribbean people in areas such as education, sports, politics, and the arts.
Preserving Caribbean heritage is important for future genera- tions. By honoring traditions, sharing stories, and embracing cultural diversity, Caribbean com- munities continue to keep their heritage alive and vibrant for the world to appreciate.
POLITICS AND GOV'T :::: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Grenada diaspora outreach
Attorney General Claudette Joseph meets with Congresswoman Yvette Clarke to strengthen Grenada-diaspora relations
Brooklyn, NY Attorney General and Minister for Legal Affairs, Labor and Consumer Affairs of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique, the Hon- orable Claudette Joseph, recently paid a courtesy call on U.S. Con- gresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) at her district office in Brooklyn, New York, as part of ongoing efforts to deepen en- gagement between Grenada and its diaspora in the United States. AG Joseph's visit was part of a New York/New Jersey meet-and- greet Grenadians tour that in- cluded a number of fundraising events. She is the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) party's candidate for the Town of St. George. Elections in Grenada are constitutionally due in Octo- ber of 2027.
The meeting brought together two influential leaders of Carib- bean heritage to discuss a range of issues impacting Grenada and the wider CARICOM region, particularly in light of shifting U.S. policy dynamics under the administration. current cussions focused on economic resilience, labor mobility, trade relations, and the role of diasmunity-underscored the im- portance of maintaining strong people-to-people ties. Her dis- trict, encompassing neighbor- hoods such as Flatbush, Crown Heights, and East Flatbush, has long served as a cultural and economic hub for Caribbean na- tionals and their descendants.
"My district is the United Na- tions of America. Here, you can find communities and people from all over the world. This is what informs me when I go to Washington I being a nuance and sensitivity of diverse im- migrant groups like no other representative. I grew up in this community and so I can speak
Dispora communities in advancing regional development.
"The meeting was positive, engaging and friendly. Congress- woman Clarke listened, offered advice and was very sensitive to issues presently facing both Gre- nada and the CARICOM region today. I want to publicly thank her for meeting with me at such short notice and I'll take her up on her offer to continue to build this relationship between us. This was a great meeting!" said Attorney General Joseph.
to the issues with some author- ity. The Grenadian community has been a strong and loyal base of support and leadership," said Congresswoman Clarke.
As the daughter of Jamaican immigrants and a steadfast ad- vocate for Caribbean-Ameri-
Congresswoman Clarke, who represents New York's 9th Con- gressional District-home one of the largest Caribbean di- aspora populations in the United States, including a vibrant and longstanding Grenadian comto can interests, Congresswoman Clarke reaffirmed her commit- ment to policies that support Caribbean nations and diaspora communities alike. She empha- sized the strategic importance of CARICOM to U.S. foreign poli- cy and the need for collaborative approaches to address shared challenges, including climate vulnerability, economic inequal- ity, and migration.
Attorney General Joseph highlighted Grenada's ongoing efforts to strengthen governance, protect workers' rights, and en- hance consumer protections, while also recognizing the crit- ical contributions of the dias- pora to national development. She noted that partnerships with leaders like Congresswom- an Clarke are vital in navigating complex geopolitical and eco- nomic landscapes.
"The Grenadian diaspora in Brooklyn and across New York remains an indispensable part- ner in our nation's progress," Minister Joseph stated. “Engage- ment at this level reinforces our shared commitment to building sustainable pathways for growth and opportunity."
Both leaders expressed opti- mism about expanding avenues for cooperation between Gre- nada and U.S. policymakers, particularly through diaspora engagement, investment initia- tives, and cultural exchange. The visit reflects Grenada's broader strategy to strengthen interna- tional partnerships and leverage diaspora networks in advancing national and regional priori- ties. The meeting was brokered by Michael Roberts, NDC New York Chapter's Public Relations
Officer (PRO) and member of the Town of St. George Working Group, and Group Coordinator Bernard Bourne.
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POLITICS AND GOV'T :::: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Trump administration says it is ready to provide US$100 million in direct aid to Cuban people caribbeantimes.com
The Trump administration says it is ready to provide US$100 million in direct assistance to the Cuban peo- ple, if the Cuban regime will permit it. "The United States continues to seek meaningful reforms to Cuba's communist system, which has only served to enrich the elites and con- demn the Cuban people to poverty," said the State Department in a state- ment recently.
"As US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said, the United States has also made numerous private offers to the Cuban regime to provide gener- ous assistance to the Cuban people, including support for free and fast satellite internet and US$100 million in direct humanitarian assistance," it added.
"The regime refuses to allow the United States to provide this assis- tance to the Cuban people, who are in desperate need of assistance due to the failures of Cuba's corrupt
Cuban people that would be dis- tributed in coordination with the Catholic Church and other reliable independent humanitarian organi- zations."
The State Department said the decision rests with the Cuban Gov- ernment to accept the offer of assis- tance or deny "critical living-saving aid and ultimately be accountable to the Cuban people for standing in the way of critical assistance."
regime," the State Department con- tinued. "Today, the Department of State is publicly restating the United States' generous offer to provide an additional US$100 million in di- rect humanitarian assistance to the Cuban ambassador says US should lift oil blockade and economic embargo
Dominica's support, especially at the United Nations General Assembly.
"We have to say that we are grate- ful for the support of Dominica, the solidarity of Dominica in every in- ternational space, you know, in the international arena. They have been, you know, brave and they have been honest in supporting, you know, the Cuban people." Fraga said that every year, the US policy towards Cuba is losing support especially at the Unit- ed Nations where "the majority of the countries of the world support a res- olution that Cuba introduced asking for the end of the sanctions.
"And for us, it's, you know, it's amazing to see countries like Dominica that speak there with dignity, with proud, in support of that reso- lution. So, yes, again, this is not, you know, only a relation that we see that is from one side. This is for both sides. "And we appreciate the love of the people of Dominica and the support of the people and the government of Dominica," Fraga told the special radio program commemorating the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relait should end the trade embargo that has been in place since February 7, January, President Trump issued an executive order threatening Mexico with tariffs if they send oil to Cuba.
"So the reason that we are in this situation is not because the Cuban government is doing nothing. And as a matter of fact, in the last year, we have put in place more than 1,000 megawatts in solar panels," he said, acknowledging that Cuba is a big
ROSEAU, Dominica Cuba's Ambassador to Dominica, Miguel Manuel Fraga Gonzalez, has brushed aside a United States offer of US$100 million humanitarian aid package, reiterating Havana's decades' old call for Washington to lift the trade and economic embargo on the Caribbean island. Earlier this month, the Don- ald Trump administration offered the aid package to help the Cuban people amid an energy and fuel cri- sis, stipulating that the funds would be distributed through the Catholic Church and other independent hu- manitarian organizations.
But Fraga, speaking on the state- owned DBS radio on Monday night where he expressed Havana's appre- ciation for the 30-year diplomatic re- lations with Dominica, said if Wash- ington is serious about its aid package
"What we say is, you want to send oil? You want to send food? You want to send medicines? No problem. We are still waiting. We are still waiting to see what is going to be, what they are going to send for the value of $100 million.
"But our position is always clear. Remove the sanctions. If you really want to help the Cuban people, remove the sanctions. Because we were getting oil from Mexico.
country with 10 million people. Ear- lier, the Cuban diplomat told radio listeners that Dominica has remained a faithful partner of Cuba since they established diplomatic relations 30 years ago and that Havana appreciates
"But our position is always clear. Remove the sanctions. If you really want to help the Cuban people, re- move the sanctions. Because we were getting oil from Mexico. They were selling oil to Cuba." Fraga said that in tions.
Cuba condemns 'despicable accusation' against
Raul Castro
ST. GEORGE'S, Grenada - Cuba recently condemned “in the stron- gest terms" what it described as the despicable accusation by the Unit- ed States Department of Justice against former president Raul Cas- tro. Washington announced crimi- nal charges against the 94-year-old brother of revolutionist Fidel Cas- tro, in what political observers say is the latest escalation of tensions between the two countries. Raul is reportedly charged with conspiracy to kill US nationals, destruction of an aircraft, and murder, alongside several other defendants listed in the indictment.
The charges reportedly stem from a 1996 incident where two ci- vilian aeroplanes were shot down, killing four men, including three American citizens. At the time, Castro was Cuba's defense minis- ter and is alleged to have ordered the attack. The aircraft reportedly belonged to the Cuban-American exile organization Brothers to the Rescue.
Speaking at Freedom Tower in Miami, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche announced that the US would also charge Castro with destruction of aircraft, and four in- dividual counts of murder over the deaths of Armando Alejandre Jr, Carlos Alberto Costa, Mario Man- uel de la Peña, and Pablo Morales. "The United States, and President Trump, does not, and will not, for- get its citizens," Blanche said.
But in a statement issued here, the Cuban Embassy said that "the United States government lacks the legitimacy and jurisdiction to carry out this action. "It is a despicable and infamous act of political provo- cation, based on the dishonest ma- nipulation of the incident that led to the downing, in February 1996, of two aircraft operated by the Mi- ami-based terrorist organization Brothers to the Rescue over Cuban airspace, which repeated violations of Cuban airspace for hostile pur- poses were of common knowledge." Further, Havana said that Wash- Continued on page 31
IMMIGRATION ::: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Belizean deportee sent from US to Saint Kitts under third-country agreement sparks regional questions
BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS The arrival of a Belizean national in St. Kitts and Nevis after being transferred from the United States under a third-country migration arrangement has opened a new and controversial chapter in Caribbean immigration politics. The Belizean individual arrived in the twin-is- land Federation recently, alongside two Jamaican nationals, as part of a Memorandum of Understand- ing between the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis and the United States concerning the transfer of certain CARICOM citizens clas- sified as third-country nationals. The St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service confirmed that the three in- dividuals were nationals of Jamaica and Belize and were scheduled to arrive on May 19 following their Laparkan
Gabel Freight & Logistics Solutions transfer from the United States.
According to the official govern- ment statement, the transfer is be- ing carried out under an MOU be- tween Basseterre and Washington and, officials said, at no cost to the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis. The individuals are to be processed through local immigration and se- curity procedures and granted the immigration status and legal ac- commodation ordinarily applicable to CARICOM nationals within the Federation.
But the quiet nature of the ar- rival has triggered public concern, political criticism, and wider re- gional debate. In St. Kitts and Nev- is, residents and political observers have questioned why the govern- ment did not more openly brief the public before the first transfer took
Laparkan GET
Typically, Belizean nationals fac- ing removal from the United States would be expected to return to Belize. The decision to route a Be- lizean citizen to St. Kitts and Nevis under a U.S.-brokered third-coun- try arrangement is likely to sharpen scrutiny of how these agreements are being interpreted, how far they extend, and whether Caribbean governments have fully explained the long-term legal and social im- plications to their citizens.
The development is even more significant because Belize itself signed what its government de- scribed as an agreement with the United States regarding the exam- ination of protection requests in October 2025. Belize's official state- ment said the arrangement includ- ed safeguards, security screenings, place, especially given the sensitivi- ty of accepting deported or relocat- ed persons who are not nationals of the Federation.
Government stressed that the three individuals were not transferred because of criminal convictions. The admin- istration said the matter relates to immigration violations in the United States and added that U.S. authorities provided available bi- ographical, medical, and criminal background information before the transfer. Still, the presence of a Belizean national in St. Kitts un- der such an arrangement raises a broader and more complex ques- tion: why was a Belizean citizen sent to another CARICOM state instead of being repatriated direct- ly to Belize?
officials have for Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026 restrictions on nationalities, and an "absolute veto" over transfers. The St. Kitts and Nevis case therefore places the Caribbean in uncharted territory. It suggests that third-country transfer ar- rangements may not only involve non-Caribbean migrants being moved into the region, but may also involve CARICOM nationals being sent to fellow member states rath- er than to their own countries of nationality. For small island states, the issue touches several sensitive areas: sovereignty, public transpar- ency, border control, CARICOM mobility, national security, human- itarian obligations, and the growing influence of U.S. migration policy in the region.
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Continued on page 29 caribbeantimes.com
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POLITICS AND GOV'T :::: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
US to revoke passports over unpaid child support, warning issued to delinquent parents
Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026 caribbeantimes.com
Child Support
(BROOKLYN, New York): The U.S. Department of State says it is stepping up enforcement against parents who owe significant child support, warning that passports may be revoked for individuals with more than $2,500 in outstanding court-ordered payments. In a state- ment released May 7, 2026, the de- partment said it is using what it de- scribed as "commonsense tools" to strengthen compliance with child support obligations and ensure fi- nancial support for children.
Under existing U.S. law, individ- uals who owe more than $2,500 in child support can be deemed inel- igible for a passport. The State De- partment said it is now working more closely with the Department of Health and Human Services to identify cases of significant delin- quency and enforce restrictions, in- cluding passport revocation.
Once a passport is revoked, it cannot be used for international travel. Eligibility for a new passport can only be restored after the debt is paid in full and the individual is cleared by state child support en- forcement agencies. "Any Ameri-
COURT HEARING to the Sheriff of ed to notify
Cour can with significant child support debt should arrange payment... to prevent passport revocation," the department said, adding that the measure is intended to support the welfare of children and ensure com- pliance with existing federal law.
nent residents, who typically travel using their country of citizenship's passport. The enforcement expan- sion comes as federal agencies in- crease coordination on child sup- port compliance, a long-standing but now more actively enforced requirement under U.S. law.
The announcement is likely to have relevance for U.S. citizens in immigrant communities, including Caribbean-origin families, where cross-border travel and dual na- tionality are common. However, the policy applies only to U.S. passport holders and not to lawful perma-
Trinidad and Tobago's national crisis?
York): Trinidad and To- bago is allegedly facing a NATIONAL CRISIS, yet the country seems trapped in a cycle of distractions, political drama, and public confusion. This is the pre- vailing view from across social media, especially Facebook. From published reports, crime is reportedly rising, the cost of living is hurting families, frustra- tion is growing among the people, and many citizens are beginning to ask se- rious questions about the direction of the nation.
Trinidad & Tobago cit- izens have weighed in on the situation stating that whenever a country is on the verge of instability, dis- tractions become the easi- est tool to shift the public's attention away from the real problems affecting or- dinary people's lives. The people of Trinidad and Continued on page 31
ICE clarifies employer audit process and penalties for work authorization violations
(BROOKLYN, New York): U.S. Immigration and Customs En- forcement (ICE) has issued up- dated guidance detailing how it conducts employer work eligibility inspections and assesses penalties under federal law.
The guidance centers on Form I-9, the mandatory employment eligibility verification document required under the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) of 1986. Employers in the United States are legally required to ver- ify the identity and work authorization of all employees hired after November 6, 1986, and to retain those records for government in- spection.
Under federal regulations, em- ployers must complete Form I-9 for each employee and maintain it either in paper form or through an approved electronic system capable of producing readable copies. Re- cords must generally be retained for at least three years from the date of hire or one year after employ- ment ends, whichever is longer.
ICE, through its Homeland Se- curity Investigations (HSI) unit, initiates compliance reviews by serving employers with a Notice of Inspection (NOI). Once served, employers typically have at least three business days to produce re- quested Form I-9 records.
In addition to the I-9 forms, ICE may request supporting documents such as payroll records, employee lists, business licenses, and incor- poration documents. After review- ing submitted records, ICE agents assess whether the forms comply with federal requirements. Em- ployers may be given 10 business days to correct technical or proce- dural errors identified during the inspection. Failure to correct those issues can result in them being treated as substantive violations.
Possible findings and notices Following an inspection, ICE may issue several types of notices depending on its findings. A No- tice of Suspect Documents informs employers that some employee
CE documentation may not be valid or may not relate to the employee in question. Employers are advised of potential penalties for continuing to employ unauthorized workers but are given an opportunity to re- spond with proof of work authori- Continued on page 31
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Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026 caribbeantimes.com
ECONOMY ::: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
IMF: T&T's economy will remain at under one per cent next year caribbeantimes.com
BY CMC public debt and that the current ac- count balance remained in surplus, and while international reserves are trending downwards. The IMF said that reserves are supplemented by substantia 1-25 per cent of GDP-liq- uid assets in the Heritage and Stabi- lization Fund (HSF).
It said that credit growth re- mained steady and the banking sys- tem stayed well-capitalized, under- scoring continued financial sector resilience. Looking ahead, the IMF executive board said inflation is ex- pected to rise temporarily to around 3.1 per cent in 2026, reflecting global commodity price developments, be- fore stabilizing around two per cent over the medium term.
"The overall fiscal deficit is ex- pected to decline to 4.6 per cent of GDP in 2026 from 5.5 per cent in Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026
WASHINGTON, DC - The Inter- national Monetary Fund (IMF) says the economic growth in Trinidad and Tobago is projected to remain at around 0.8 per cent in 2026, and will strengthen over the medium term supported by new energy projects and continued momentum in the non-energy sector. The IMF execu- tive board, which has just completed the Article IV Consultation for the Caribbean country, said that eco- nomic activity continued its gradu- al recovery in 2025, with real gross domestic product (GDP) growth moderating to 0.8 per cent and infla- tion returning to low, pre-pandemic levels.
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2025, and international reserves are expected to remain adequate at about 5.5 months of imports.
"Higher energy prices are expect- ed to support fiscal and external balances in the near term, while the authorities' ongoing revenue and ex- penditure reforms, and new energy projects coming on stream underpin a gradual improvement in the fiscal and external positions over the me- dium term, the IMF said.
It noted also that the outlook is subject to significant uncertainty, in- cluding due to the impact of the war in the Middle East. Delays in new energy projects or disruptions to production from mature fields could weigh on growth, while faster imple- mentation of reforms under the Re- vitalization Blueprint and sustained investment could lift medium-term
VERNATION
FUND prudent fiscal and monetary policies and persevere in diversifying the economy and strengthening its resil- ience to shocks. Directors noted that persistent fiscal deficits have led to an increase including by enhancing revenue mobilization, rationalizing spending, and improving invest- ment efficiency, and emphasized that a stronger sustained fiscal consolida- tion effort, while protecting the most Continued on page 31 growth prospects."
The IMF executive board said while it welcomed Trinidad and To- bago's continued economic recovery, low inflation, and healthy banking system, the economic outlook is however subject to elevated uncer- tainty, including through the impact of the war in the Middle East.
The board is encouraging the au- thorities to address underlying mac- roeconomic vulnerabilities through
MOTHER AFRICA
SEASON 25 26
CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Jamaican economy contracted during the first quarter of 2026
KINGSTON, Jamaica - The Ja- maican economy contracted by an estimated 5.9 per cent during the January to March 2026 quarter, compared with the corresponding quarter of 2025, the director general of the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIO) Dr Wayne Henry said recently.
He told reporters that the perfor- mance for the review quarter large- ly reflected the lingering impact of Hurricane Melissa that hit the island in October last year on productive activities. He said that the impact of the hurricane led to an estimated contraction in all industries with the exception of financial & insurance activities and public administration & defense; as well as a reduction in the employed labour force and lower levels of business and consumer con- fidence, which constrained domestic demand.
"The hurricane's impact was com- pounded by weakened external de- mand, largely reflecting the intensifi- cation of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The resulting disruptions to supply chains and surging energy prices curtailed trade flows and dampened external demand," he added. The mining sector suffered the largest impact, contracting by 26.6 per cent, followed by agriculture at 20.3 per cent, manufacturing at 7.7 per cent and construction, which fell by 1.3 per cent.
The usually dominant accommo- dations and food services or tour- ism sector also experienced a sharp downturn of 20.4 per cent, negatively impacted by a 17 per cent fall in visi- tor arrivals and a 27.5 per cent reduc- tion in total stopover arrivals. Total visitor expenditure for the period declined by 21.3 per cent, amounting to US$976.4 million.
Henry said that for the fiscal year 2025-26, real value added is estimat- ed to have declined by 1.7 per cent and that the out-turn for the fiscal year reflected a contraction in all in- dustries, and that the downturn for the fiscal year largely stemmed from the negative impact of Hurricane
Regarding the employment out- turn, the Statistical Institute of Ja- maica (STATIN) reporting on the Labor Force Survey for January 2026, showed that the unemployment rate was 3.6 per cent, down 0.1 percent- age point relative to January 2025. The number of persons employed decreased by 30 100 persons to 1 389 400 relative to January 2025. Henry said that for the period April-June 2026, prospects for the economy are generally negative. "This is based on the expectation for lower output as industries continue to recover from the adverse effects of the hurricane. It is projected that the will economy contract within the range of three to four per cent relative to April-June
Henry said that it is anticipated that GDP performance will be in- fluenced by continued geopolitical tensions in the Middle East which have resulted in higher energy and fertilizer prices. "In addition to pric- es, the conflict has adversely affected investor and consumer sentiments
Melissa.
ITUT that may impact overall demand for goods and services in the short term. Lower production, as industries are still within the recovery process, which may take up to three years."
He said for agriculture, while cer- tain short-term crops have already rebounded, the overall recovery of the industry will not be fully realized in the short term, given the extended period required for other crop vari- eties to reach maturity Henry said that preliminary data for the quarter indicate that airport arrivals for April 2026 declined by 22.5 per cent rela- tive to April 2025, adding this out- turn was in part due to the lingering effect of Hurricane Melissa.
For the mining & quarrying in- dustry, data for April indicate that the heavier weighted alumina pro- duction, contracted by 27.3 per cent, while crude bauxite production in- creased by 0.6 per cent. The PIOJ director general said that the pro- jection for fiscal year 2026/27 is for growth within the range of one to three per cent and that most induscaribbeantimes.com tries are forecast to record growth, as the recovery from the weather-relat- ed shock in 2025 will become more pronounced in the latter half of the fiscal year October 2026-March 2027.
But he acknowledged that there are "upside potential and downside risks to this forecast". He said the up- side potential to growth include ear- ly resolution to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East; and favorable weather conditions, supporting the continued strengthening in agricul- tural output and water production. The downside risks include un- planned factory downtime associat- ed with aged production plants, par- ticularly in the mining & quarrying and manufacturing industries.
Mottley urges producers to help drive Barbados' re-industrialization
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley is urging producers and industry stakeholders to work with her administration in a re- newed national effort to rebuild production, expand exports and strengthen Barbados' economic resilience. "Barbadians have been satisfied to be consumers and not producers. That is not going to get us anywhere," she said in an address that focused on re-in- dustrialization, export strategy, standards, financing and energy resilience.
Mottley said that Barbados could no longer be satisfied with being primarily a nation of con- sumers and that the country's next phase of development must be built on a clearer commitment to producing more, exporting more and creating higher-value goods and services for regional and international markets. She said the challenge was especially urgent in Barbados' 60th year of Independence and fifth year as a Republic, noting that re-industri- alization would only be achieved if producers, policymakers and supporting institutions worked together in common purpose.
Mottley said that in 1960, Bar- bados exported approximately US$24 million in merchandise and imported US$49 million in PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE
United Natio Climate Chan
Prime Minister Mia Mottley address- ing Barbadian producers and indus- try stakeholders.
goods. By 2024, however, exports stood at approximately US$461 million, while imports had risen to US$2.2 billion, noting that im- ports were now almost five times the level of exports.
Prime Minister Mottley iden- tified six key areas that she said must guide the country's indus- trial and productive agenda: de- veloping an export mentality; using standards and regulation as a competitive advantage; chang- ing the approach to financing and ownership; building energy resil- ience; committing to continuous retraining; and greening and digi- talizing industrial processes.
On the export agenda, she explained that Barbados' small population could not provide the scale required for producers to grow sufficiently. Producers, therefore, had to see the Carib- bean Community (CARICOM) Single Market and Economy (CSME), wider trade agreements, and international niche markets as part of the space in which Bar- badian goods and services must compete. She said small size could either become a limitation or an advantage. In her view, Barbados had to choose agility, nimbleness and higher value, rather than al- lowing small size to become what she described as a "mental noose".
Prime Minister Mottley said standards were essential for mar- Continued on page 29
Stop calling it 'free speech' when it's livestream hate caribbeantimes.com as a news report or an opinion column. But there is a world of difference between speaking your mind and weaponizing your mi- crophone to torment others. No- where in the realm of journalism, even in the dangerous recesses of manufactured consent, is racism a viewpoint; no, it is a tactic of de- humanization. When it is streamed for views, likes, and donations, it becomes far more than a private opinion. It becomes a public dan- ger and social hazard.
We already know the damage this kind of toxic content causes. Children watch it at home. Young fans imitate it in school hallways. Families of color see their own fac- es in the crosshairs, not just as vic- tims but as targets for performance. The messages are clear: "Your body is a joke. Your pain is content. Your life is entertainment." Platforms may claim they cannot control ev- erything, but they can control their AN ESSAY BY MICHAEL DEREK ROBERTS
Tune into any livestream on You- Tube, TikTok or other social media platforms these days and you will often see the same disgusting pat- tern: a white streamer, a camera, and a crowd of onlookers, all sur- rounding someone who is being targeted, mocked, and harassed for their race. The comments chase the violence with applause, and the platform quietly harvests ad revenue while racists perform for profit. This is not "free speech." It is putrid public racism dressed up as entertainment, and it is poison- ing our communities one click at a time.
Social media companies love to repeat the phrase "freedom of ex- pression," as if all content is created equal. They wrap racist livestreams in that language, as if broadcast- ing racial harassment is the same
America's myths are running out of road drills become routine, something is wrong. Pretending otherwise does not make the problems disappear. It only makes reform harder.
What makes the American story so powerful is also what makes it dangerous: it often looks like com- mon sense. Patriotism becomes a reflex. "Greatest country in the world" becomes a chant. "Sup- port our troops" becomes a shield against criticism. And in that atmo- sphere, asking questions is treated as disloyalty instead of citizenship.
The result is a culture that can defend almost anything as long as it is wrapped in the flag. That is how bad policy survives. People are asked to love the idea of the country instead of confronting the reality of it. Yet reality keeps intruding: unaf- fordable medicine, weak social mo-
A hard truth is making more Americans uncomfortable: the country's most cherished slogans no longer match the evidence. We are told the United States is the fre- est, greatest, and most successful nation on Earth, yet on many mea- surable indicators it falls short of the countries Americans are taught to dismiss. That gap between national pride and national performance is not harmless. It is a problem.
The case is simple. If a country spends more than its peers on health care and education but gets worse outcomes, something is wrong. If it locks up more people than almost any other developed nation, some- thing is wrong. If police violence, mass shootings, and school shooter algorithms, their moderation poli- OB cies, and who they allow to profit from hate.
This is not just a global prob- lem. It shows up in our local bars, parks, bus stops, and streets. A livestreamer can walk into our neighborhood, chase down a lo- cal resident, and turn a street fight into a viral spectacle while their followers cheer from thousands of miles away sitting comfortably at their kitchen tables or lying in their warm beds. That violence may start online, but it lands in real bodies, real homes, and real fear. We can- not pretend this is "just a video" when the bruises and the trauma are real.
As a community, we have to stop normalizing this. We must:
- Name it clearly as racism, not "edgy content";
THE STREETS post a sign outside your home that insults your neighbor's race? Would you shout racial slurs in the super- market for clout? If you would not, then ask why you tolerate it when it is livestreamed for profit.
Continued on page 30
Report clear cases of harass- ment and intimidation;
- Demand that local and nation- al platforms stop rewarding hate with visibility and money.
If you are someone who still thinks "it's just free speech," exam- ine your own standards. Would you
Refuse to watch or share streams that profit from racial ha- rassment;
COLLEGE ACCESS 85% move for peer nations thar S
15209 US Japan Spain CA CO Y VE PREVENTABLE MORTALITY RATE
82% per nations to-63.7 53 rd sincenerational-43.75
Gematy
11 france
GLOBAL HEALTH RANKINGS: US fails below many peens despite high spending
INCOME MOBILITY INDEX: The actual probability of moving up
FREEDOM RANKINGS BY DIMENSION: PISA scores show a gap and policy-based twedom vary
THE GAP BETWEEN IDEALS & DATA: A measurable difference.
CORE INDICATORS SHOWING U.S. SHORTFALL Nealthcare Efficiency US (high cost, lower outcome rank Social Safety Net US med celative support) Educational Equity US (significant achievement gap) Sustainable Development: US flower score than peer nations
DATA SOURCE PANEL 3CECD the world. Nations that build strong schools, protect public health, and treat dignity as a public good are not enemies of freedom. They are examples of what freedom can look like when it is taken seriously.
bility, violent policing, and children learning to hide from gunfire.
This is not anti-American criticism. It is the opposite. A country cannot improve if it refuses to com- pare itself honestly with the rest of Americans do not need less love of country. They need more truth. And until the country is willing to measure itself honestly, the myths will keep speaking louder than the facts.
OPINIONS / COMMENTARY :: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
White House confirms historic deal: Replace National Defense with "Excellent Customer Feedback"
WASHINGTON - In a move ex- perts are calling "bold" "deeply unserious," and "somehow still on brand, President Donald Trump announced last week Monday that the United States had signed a landmark agree- ment under which the nation's armed forces would be "right-sized for effi- ciency" in exchange for Iran leaving a glowing five-star review of the White House on Google Maps.
According to the administration, the deal was the result of "months of very successful negotiating," and "the art of the deal" during which Trump personally assured both sides that the arrangement was "the greatest securi- ty innovation in the history of diplo- macy, maybe ever." Social media has erupted with the Donald's awesome ability and expertise in "3-D chess" he learned from Master Xi during his recent China visit.
"Why keep all these tanks around when we can have a strong online presence?" Trump reportedly said from the Rose Garden, where he stood in front of a banner reading MAKE AMERICA RANK AGAIN. "The military is very expensive, very complicated, and frankly the stars system is not working for us. Iran un- derstands reviews. They understand ratings. They respect ratings."
Under the agreement, the Pen- tagon will be converted into a "pre- mium concierge experience center," while military bases will be repur- posed into mixed-use developments featuring pickleball courts, wellness pods, and a new national department called Defense, But Quieter.
In return, Iran has agreed to post the following verified review: "Beauti- ful building. Helpful staff. Fast service. Would definitely return. Five stars."
Administration officials celebrated the breakthrough as proof that the president's negotiating style remains unmatched. "Other presidents waste time with treaties, alliances, and strat- egy," one senior aide said. "This presi- dent gets results. He didn't just de-es- calate a global conflict. He converted it into user-generated content."
White House Confirms Historic Deal: Replace National Defense With "Excellent Customer Feedback"
DEPARTMENT OF CUSTOMER SUCCESS
Der Beily Rong gressive comment moderation." As of press time, the State Department was reportedly working on addition- al agreements in which China would delete one negative Yelp review and North Korea would change its profile picture to something "less intense."
Critics, meanwhile, expressed con- cern that the United States may now be vulnerable to foreign adversaries. The White House dismissed those fears, noting that the nation's new de- terrence strategy would rely on "good vibes, strong branding, and very ag-
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June matters because Caribbean Heritage Month is a chance to recognize the region's history, culture, and impact on the wider world. It is also a time to honor the contri- butions of Caribbean people in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and across the diaspora. The Caribbean story is one of survival, resistance, creativity, and influence. The region helped shape global music, food, language, reli- gion, politics, and literature. From steel pan and reggae to calypso, soca, zouk, and dancehall, Carib- bean culture has traveled far be- yond the islands and become part of everyday life around the world. Caribbean cuisine, from jerk chick- en to roti to doubles, has likewise become a beloved part of multicul- tural life in many cities.
But June is not only about cel- ebration. It is also about memory. The Caribbean's history includes slavery, colonialism, indenture- ship, migration, and struggle for independence. Caribbean Heritage Month gives communities a public moment to reflect on those painful legacies while also celebrating the resilience that emerged from them. It reminds us that the region's peo- ple did not just endure history; they helped shape it.
In the United States, Caribbean Americans have made major con- tributions in medicine, education, business, labor, public service, and the arts. Their presence is felt in hospitals, schools, churches, com- munity organizations, newsrooms, and government. Many have also played important roles in civil rights, immigrant advocacy, and neighborhood development.
That is why June is important. It is not just a ceremonial month. It is a platform for education, pride, and intergenerational connection. It gives young people a chance to learn where they come from and older generations a chance to pass on stories, traditions, and values. Caribbean Heritage Month matters because a people who know their history are better prepared to protect their future.
Powerful meaning & symbolism for Caribbean history
France's repeal of the Black code and Pope Leo's apology
1685 by King Louis XIV, governed slavery in France's colonies and treated human beings as property. Although slavery was abolished in 1848, the decree remained on the books, a reminder that legal sys- tems often outlive the injustices they once enforced. French President Emmanuel Macron said last week that the code "should never have survived the abolition of slav- ery," and lawmakers acted with rare unity to erase it from the statute books.
For Caribbean people, the signif- icance is immediate. The Caribbean was shaped by the same colonial order that made the Code Noir pos- sible, and the memory of enslave-
As Caribbean Heritage Month approaches this June, France's Par- liament has taken a symbolic but important step by voting to repeal the slavery-era Code Noir, or Black
Code, a decree that for centuries helped define the legal architecture of bondage in France's colonial em- pire. The National Assembly vote was unanimous, 254-0, underscor- ing how even a document long stripped of formal still car- power ried the stain of slavery in French law and memory.
The Code Noir, first issued in ment remains central to the region's identity, politics, and family histo- ries. Caribbean Heritage Month in June is meant to honor that legacy while celebrating the cultural pow- er that emerged despite it the music, language, food, resilience, and political leadership that Carib- bean people carried into the mod- ern world.
This French vote matters be- cause history is not only about what
CODE NOIR
RECUEIL D'EDITS DECLARATIONS ET ABAITS Inna Nipods Amirige
A PARIS CLAIRES HOCHE happened, but about what a nation chooses to formally confront. Re- pealing the Black Code does not undo slavery, colonialism, or their afterlives. But it does send a mes- sage that legal remnants of human oppression have no rightful place in a democratic order. That message resonates far beyond Paris, espe- cially in Caribbean communities, like Haiti, that still live with the in- herited inequalities of empire.
The timing is also powerful. June is the month when Caribbean Americans and Caribbean diaspo- ra communities across the hemi- sphere reflect on the region's strug- gles and achievements. Against that backdrop, France's repeal is a re- minder that historical accountabil- ity is never purely ceremonial. It is part of how nations decide whether they will preserve old injustices or finally bury them. For the Caribbe- an, where the past is never far away, this is more than a legal cleanup. It is an act of historical recognition ― one that says the rules of slavery may have survived in archives, but they no longer deserve a place in law.
Pope Leo XIV apologizes for the Vatican's role in slavery Pope Leo XIV has made a histor- Continued on page 30
TECHNOLOGY :::: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
(BROOKLYN, New York): Americans are increasingly con- cerned that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is costing jobs and, as the tech- nology expands, could eliminate many more. Those concerns are valid. AI is already replacing specif- ic tasks within jobs, and entire roles may shrink as companies automate more work.
Historically, new technologies have destroyed some jobs while creating others. The difference with modern AI is the speed of change and the fact that it can perform mental work, not just physical la- bor. Employment firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas reported that companies explicitly attributed about 12,700 U.S. layoffs to AI in 2024 and roughly 54,800 in 2025.
By early 2026, additional AI- linked cuts were reported in the thousands. Some reports counted more than 17,000 AI-specific layoffs during the first nine months of 2025, with September 2025 alone seeing about 7,000 cuts. Broader layoffs tied to automation, software upgrades, AI systems, and work- flow restructuring were even larger, exceeding 20,000 additional cuts in 2025.
Estimates of jobs lost in the U.S. because of AI range from roughly 50,000 to 75,000 over the past few years, while hundreds of thousands more may have been indirectly af- fected by automation and AI-driven restructuring. At the same time, AI has also created jobs. LinkedIn and other labor analyses estimate AI-related hiring created roughly 640,000 jobs in the U.S. between 2023 and 2025, though many re- quire advanced technical skills.
Economists warn the bigger im- pact may still lie ahead. An MIT-re- lated analysis estimated current AI systems could potentially perform tasks tied to about 11-12% of the U.S. labor market.
While AI has not yet caused mass unemployment nationwide, it is already reshaping industries such as software development, customer service, data entry, administrative work, content creation, legal re- search, and some finance functions. Some economists believe the long- term effect may be fewer entry-lev- el white-collar jobs rather than the sudden replacement of workers.
Research indicates several occu- pations are especially vulnerable to AI:
AI chatbots and voice systems can answer questions, process re- funds, book appointments, trou- bleshoot problems, and handle complaints. A company that once needed 500 call-center workers may now require only 100 supervisors
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AI can summarize meetings, write emails, generate reports, or- ganize schedules, process invoices, enter data, and analyze spread- sheets. Administrative assistants, data-entry clerks, and back-office workers are increasingly vulnerable because one employee using AI can now perform work that once re- quired several people.
Journalism and content creation AI can produce news summa- ries, sports recaps, marketing copy, social media posts, photographs, and basic video editing. Media companies may reduce the number of copywriters, junior reporters, and editors they employ. Human writers remain essential for inves- tigative journalism, creativity, and public trust, but routine content is DR. TRACEY JOSEPH DDS., PLLC DDS., GENERAL COSMETIC DENTIST 1655 Flatbush Ave. (Bet. H&l) 718-377-1319
Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026 becoming increasingly automated. Software engineering
AI coding systems can write code, debug programs, generate websites, create documentation, and automate testing. This may re- duce demand for junior program- mers and outsourced coding teams. Senior engineers remain highly valuable because humans are still needed for areas such as system ar- chitecture and security. However, smaller teams can now build larger systems.
caribbeantimes.com
Automation already includes self-checkout systems, AI ordering kiosks, robotic food preparation, and automated inventory systems. Fast-food restaurants may eventu- ally operate with only a handful of workers.
AI is assisting rather than replac- ing doctors, but it is already analyz- ing medical scans, suggesting diag-
Continued on page 30
LAW AND ORDER caribbeantimes.com
(BROOKLYN, New York): A Nige- rian man based in Pennsylvania, U.S., Adepoju Babatunde Salako, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison in the United States after pleading guilty to wire fraud linked to a 2022 Alas- ka Permanent Fund Dividend fraud scheme. According to court docu- ments, Salako fraudulently obtained the personal information of several Alaska residents and used it to submit seven fake applications for Permanent Fund Dividend payments between January and February 2022.
Investigators said he created email accounts linked to the victims and gained access to their "myAlaska” on- line profiles, where he altered contact and banking details to redirect pay- ments to accounts under his control. Authorities said Salako used a Virtual Private Network to disguise his loca- tion and make the applications ap- pear to have originated from Alaska, although records later traced some activity to Philadelphia.
The Alaska Department of Reve- nue detected the fraud and rejected the applications before any payments were made. Officials said the scheme could have cost the state and victims nearly $23,000. Salako pleaded guilty to seven counts of wire fraud. The sentence will run concurrently with a separate Colorado case in which he was sentenced to 78 months in prison over COVID-19 relief fraud and inter- national money laundering offences involving $2.5 million in restitution.
Reacting to the case, U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman said, “Mr. Salako spent considerable time planning and perpetrating his scheme to defraud the Alaska PFD. "Thanks to the great work of the Alaska Department of Revenue and FBI, he didn't succeed; but even attempting to defraud the PFD will not be tolerated and could result in federal prison."
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - Carib- bean Community (CARICOM) chairman, Dr. Terrance Drew says meaningful and lasting progress in addressing crime and violence across the Carib- bean region cannot be achieved without decisive leadership and political commitment. Addressing the launch of the CARICOM-UNDP Diagnostic Document and CARICOM-UN Action Framework, the St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister said politics will remains the critical ingredient necessary to move crime prevention strategies from theory into action.
"I've always held that nothing can really be done unless there's political will. The political will is what allows us to be able to implement policies and to put whatever is necessary behind it to get it done." Prime Minister Drew said that one of the most difficult challenges in advancing a preventative approach to crime and violence is not necessarily proving the science behind it, but convincing leadership structures and the wider society to embrace a shift away from viewing crime solely through the lens of polic-
:: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
CARICOM welcomes launch of new crime and violence initiative ing and punishment.
He said that as Minister of Na- tional Security in the twin island Federation, he has had to engage in difficult but necessary conver- sations to build support around a broader societal approach to reducing crime. "I told them that that crime and violence is not a political football, it is a societal matter. It is not merely a law en- forcement matter, and if we are going to deal with a societal is- sue, then all of us need to be on board."
Prime Minister Drew said achieving this required unprec- edented collaboration and the willingness to engage all sectors of society, including members of the government and opposition, social agencies, health profes- sionals, churches, educational institutions, businesses and in- ternational partners.
He said that approach aligns closely with his government's broader Citizen Security frame- work, which has focused on strengthening interagency co- ordination, increasing social in- tervention programs, promoting evidence-based strategies and fostering community partnerships. Government initiatives over the past several years have increasingly centered on public health, prevention and commu- nity resilience as essential tools for national development and security.
Prime Minister Drew acknowl- edged that political leadership often faces pressure to pur- sue more immediate responses during periods of heightened vi- olence. However, he maintained that long-term transformation requires addressing root causes. "It is hard because I know anoth- er politician who tried to sell the concept, and he was ridiculed. So I said, well, this makes sense scientifically. It is not guesswork."
Prime Minister Drew said he is pleased of the growing part- nership between and the United Nations saying it signals a wider acceptance of evidence-based strategies and represents an important turning point for the Caribbean. "I re- ally want this to be successful. I really want to see it implement- ed,” Drew said, reaffirming his support for regional collabora- tion and preventative approach-
UN OFFICIAL SAYS CHILDREN FACE BRUNT OF GANG VIOLENCE IN HAITI
PORT AU PRINCE, Haiti The United Nations Special Representa- tive for Children and Armed Conflict, (CAAC), Vanessa Frazier, says chil- dren living in Haiti are under "con- stant fear" amid displacement, intim- idation and trauma caused by gang violence. UN officials have warned that the recruitment and use of chil- dren by gangs nearly tripled in 2025 compared to the previous year, with children now estimated to make up between 30 and 50 per cent of gang members.
They say children in Haiti are fac- ing escalating violence as armed gangs increasingly recruit minors, kill and injure children and use sexual vio- lence to terrorize communities. Fra- zier, who has ended a two-day to the French-speaking Caribbean Commu- nity (CARICOM) country, said that children encountered during security operations must be treated primarily as victims and handed over to child protection services. "Without protect- ing these children and supporting all children affected by violence, lasting stability in Haiti will not be possible," Frazier said.
"The situation of children in Haiti is unique in many ways and the chal- lenges they face are extraordinarily complex, multi-layered and multi-di- mensional. I met young children and adolescents who were already in a situation of vulnerability within their own homes and had gone through an uninterrupted cycle of violence.
"It is difficult to comprehend that children could go through such ex- periences. Yet for many, it is a reality. Growing up means a daily struggle to
LAW AND ORDER :::: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH just survive, live in constant fear, and be subject to intimidation, displace- ment, violence and trauma as gangs take advantage of the vulnerability of these children," said Frazier.
During her mission, the Special Representative was received by Carlos Ruiz Massieu, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti and Head of the UN Integrated Of- fice in Haiti (BINUH), together with the UNICEF Representative, Geeta Narayan.
She also met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Justice and Public Security, the Institut pour le Bien-Etre Social et de Recherches, the National Commission for Disar- mament, Dismantlement and Reinte- gration, the Special Representative of the Gang Suppression Force (GSF), as well as representatives of the United Nations System, the diplomatic and donor community, civil society orga- nizations as well as children affected by violence.
Frazier welcomed that the protec- tion of children is at the center of the agenda for the government of Haiti and its partners and commended the government of Prime Minister Alix
Didier Fils-Aimé for its efforts in tak- ing concrete steps to protect children, including through the implementa- tion of the handover protocol signed with the United Nations in 2024.
She said that children under the age of 18 years encountered during secu- rity operations must be treated first and foremost as victims and swiftly handed over to child protection ser- vices for care, protection, and rein- tegration, in line with the existing handover protocol. For children who may have committed serious crimes during their association with gangs, juvenile justice standards apply with detention as the last resort, in line with Haiti's obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and commitment to the Paris Princi- ples endorsed by the country. "There is a window of opportunity now to do the right thing as the GSF deploys. Security and child protection cannot be separated. Without protect- ing these children and supporting all children affected by violence, lasting stability in Haiti will not be possible," Frazier said, welcoming the GSF's ef- forts to put systems in place to protect children and train contingents on child protection.
al Roberts, a re- spected vol- leyball player and tennis coach, who was report- edly found dead at his apartment in Sunny Acres on Friday afcian sporting communities, where he was regarded as a dedicated athlete, coach, and contributor to youth and sports development. Reports out of Saint Lucia indicate that the matter is being treated as part of an active police investigation. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as inquiries continue.
For many across the Eastern Ca- ribbean, Roberts' passing represents not only the loss of a young life, but also the loss of a regional sports fig- ure whose work crossed national boundaries. As a Vincentian making an impact in Saint Lucia, he embod- ied the close sporting and cultural ties that bind the islands of the Caribbean. Community members and persons familiar with his sporting contribu- tions have begun expressing sadness over the news, describing the inci- dent as a painful moment for regional sports.
Police have urged that the investi- gation be allowed to take its course. Anyone with information that may assist authorities is encouraged to contact law enforcement in Saint Lu- cia.
Frazier, who visited transit centers operated by the government with support from UNICEF, acknowl- edged that reintegration of children from gangs is a major and multidi- mensional challenge for all parties in- volved, including the government and its partners. "All children I spoke with told me one thing: they want to go to school, play, learn and overall, simply be children," she added, underscor- ing the importance of education and learning as a core part of reintegra- tion.
ternoon.
According to regional reports, Roberts was discovered by his room- mate at approximately 2:00 p.m. and was found with multiple wounds. Emergency personnel were reported- ly called to the scene, where Roberts was later pronounced dead. Author- ities have not yet released full details on the circumstances surrounding his death, and no official information has been provided regarding any suspect, motive, or arrest at this stage.
Roberts was widely known in re- gional sporting circles, particularly for his involvement in volleyball and his work as a tennis coach in Saint Lucia. His death has sent shockwaves through the Vincentian and Saint Lucaribbeantimes.com
- By CMC
VINCENTIAN SPORTSMAN DARRION ROBERTS FOUND DEAD IN SAINT LUCIA; POLICE LAUNCH INVESTIGATION
SUNNY ACRES, SAINT LUCIA - Police in Saint Lucia have launched an investigation following the death of 31-year-old Vincentian nation-
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BUSINESS PROFILE :::: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Brooklyn's Newest R&B Rave THE GENTLEMEN'S KITCHEN caribbeantimes.com
Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026
It's a new, chic, swanky place on Flatbush Avenue in Brooklyn. And uniquely different. First, the clientele. Millennials and Gen Z. And the owners reflect that nu- ance in an area that's normally the hangout of sundry old-timers and barflies nostalgically "liming" and pontificating about "...when I was your age." None of that at The Gentleman's Kitchen. Muted con- versations punctuated by laughter. Intimate. Great service and a wel- coming atmosphere from the time you step up to the door to enter the establishment. Nice. My name is Mike Roberts, and I'm the Editor of Caribbean Times News (www. caribbeantimes.com), and I recent- ly paid an impromptu visit to this restaurant and bar that is causing rave reviews online. I had to see if the hype jived with reality.
Well, the ambiance is modern, exotic, but not over-the-top. The servers were very friendly, guest-fo- cused, and professional. They did not take orders - they had conver- sations about food choices, drinks, and with guests. Nice touch. Okay, I'm just a bit impressed. So, it was time to look at the menu and check out the food to see if it passed mus- ter. First, the creativity and fusion of various cuisines were obvious from the start. For example, serv- ing up shrimp stuffed with crab meat. Surprisingly well done, with the shrimp cooked just right and the crab meat seasoned to perfec- tion. First box ticked. Smoked half chicken with mashed potatoes? Great pairing. Bold taste. Grilled Branzino? They nailed this fish dish expertly. Second box ticked.
So, I got to thinking. Maybe I'll get some insights into how the chef arrived at these great food creations and what makes him tick. His name is Adonis Cockfield, and he is also one of the owners along with Tyshawn Jamison, Aaron Christopher, and Sean DeRose - all Black males, all either millennials or Gen Z. Now I'm impressed. Also, please note that The Gentlemen's Kitchen opened in February 2026. Impres- sive because the place wasn't overly popping, yet there were lots of pa- trons, especially at the long bar. But back to the food thing.
"We aim to serve a high-end din- ing and engaging climate experi- ence, especially designed to attract young, Black professionals. This experience starts from the time you enter the door and continues with our five-star service, our unique food and drinks all packaged to make you want to come back and tell your friends to visit," Adonis told me.
Yeah. The great vibe is what gets you. Positive. Intimate. Inviting. Special. And how long have you been cooking? "Well, I've always loved to cook and been doing it for as long as I can remember. I'm a self-taught chef. And I created the menu myself. For me, it is all about taking the flavors of the Caribbean and adding the sweet and spicy to the mix. The result is a food menu unique to the Gentleman's Kitch- en. Literally a Caribbean-flavored steakhouse cuisine," Chef Adonis explained.
The Gentleman's Kitchen -A Pan-Caribbean Steakhouse located at 847 Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, smack-bang in the heart of the Caribbean community. To me, the place reflects all the flavors of the Caribbean and its legend- ary panache, from the crab-stuffed shrimp to the wine. My money is on that menu item served up on some unique plates. But I'm not going to tell you all of the secrets. Visit! And call me in the morning! The Gentle- men's Kitchen, for me, is a 4 out of 5.
UNIQUE AND SPECIAL
LAVEN do
ARTS - ENTERTAINMENT
G COLE WRITES TRIBUTE SONG 'THERE GOES
THAT MAN' TO HONOR ERNIE SMITH
(BROOKLYN, New York): When G Cole heard that Er- nie Smith died, he got to work instantly and wrote a tribute song to one of Jamaica's great- est composers. That song, There Goes That Man, was re- leased on April 28 12 days after Smith's death. G Cole co-pro- duced the song with Ed Rob- inson, whose wife Joanna Ma- rie was Smith's manager at the time of his passing on April 16 at age 80 in Miami. He de- scribed Smith as "an enigma" and an "awesome storyteller."
Smith is best known for easy-grooving songs like Pitta Patta, Life is Just For Living, Ride On Sammy and Duppy Gunman. His career peaked in the 1970s, a time of turmoil in Jamaica, his homeland.
"Ernie's smile was as big as his voice, and he lived for that stage, no doctor. No manage- ment could keep him off it. A true showman, and he loved his fans as much as they loved him," said G Cole, who at tended Smith's thanksgiving service at Metropolitan Bap- tist Church in Davie, South Florida. There Goes That Man will be on a compilation album dedicated to Smith. It is pro- Continued on page 31
CARNIVAL CULTURE CLASH
Mr Killa ignites debate on Trinidad Carnival and Grenada's jab jab culture ancestral authenticity.
The comments, made during a recent Caribbean tour appearance alongside popular online stream- er IShowSpeed, quickly ignited pas- sionate reactions across social media platforms, drawing responses from Carnival enthusiasts, cultural com- mentators, and soca fans throughout the region.
Continued on page 20
(BROOKLYN, New York): A spir- ited regional debate surrounding Caribbean Carnival culture erupted online recently after Grenadian soca artist Mr Killa made comments de- scribing Trinidad Carnival as "big and commercialized" while praising Grenada's Jab Jab tradition for main- taining what he called a more raw and Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026
NEW ALBUM 'GOD & TIME' SET FOR JUNE RELEASE
(BROOKLYN, New York): Dancehall star Vybz Kartel is set to release a new album, God & Time, on June 5, marking what the artist describes as a major new chapter in his ca- reer following his release from prison in 2024. The album is now available for pre-order alongside the release of its ti- tle track, "God & Time," and an accompanying music video filmed in Miami and Kingston and directed by Ruppi.
The project follows a strong run for Kartel, whose recent al- bums Party With Me and Heart & Soul both received Grammy nominations for Best Reggae Album. His 2025 anniversary project, 10th Anniversary: Vi- king (Vybz Is King), also add- ed to renewed global interest in the dancehall entertainer.
According to a release an- nouncing the album, God & Time will feature collab- orations with several ma- jor artists, including Puer- to Rican star Farruko and Jamaican entertainers Skil- libeng and Shenseea. Shenseea previously appeared on the single "Panic," which was re- leased ahead of the album.
The album is described as Continued on page 20
ARTS ENTERTAINMENT :: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH caribbeantimes.com
CARNIVAL
During the discussion, Mr Kil- la contrasted the global scale and structure of Trinidad's Carnival with Grenada's traditional Jab Jab cul- ture, which is widely known for its deep spiritual symbolism, resistance themes, and intense folkloric expres- sion rooted in emancipation history.
While some social media users interpreted the remarks as criticism of Trinidad and Tobago's interna- tionally recognized Carnival prod- uct, others defended the artist, argu- ing that he was simply highlighting
Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026
Continued from page 19 blending dancehall, crossover sounds, personal reflections, and more introspective themes. The ti- tle references the Jamaican phrase "God & Time," often associated with faith, patience, and destiny. Produced by longtime collaborator
AKING WS the differences between the Carib- bean's various Carnival traditions rather than attacking one culture in favor of another.
The backlash intensified as Trini- dadians rallied to defend what many consider one of the world's premier cultural festivals. At the same time, several Grenadians and regional supporters applauded Mr Killa for openly championing indigenous Ca- ribbean traditions that they believe have sometimes been overshadowed by mainstream commercialization. As the online discourse escalated, Mr Killa later issued a public clarifi- cation via social media, insisting that TJ Records alongside Kartel, the al- bum reunites the team behind Vi- king (Vybz Is King) and King of the Dancehall, the latter of which included Kartel's RIAA Gold-certi- fied hit "Fever."
Kartel, born Adidja Palmer in Portmore, spent 13 years in prison before his conviction was over- turned by the UK Privy Council and Jamaican courts. He was rehis comments were misunderstood and never intended as disrespect to- ward Trinidad and Tobago.
"At no point did I ever say that Trinidad and Tobago Carnival is fake. That is not my word, and not my position," the artist stated. He went on to explain that describing Trinidad Carnival as commercial- ized was not meant negatively, but rather as recognition of the festival's global expansion and massive infrastructure.
"It is one of the most powerful cultural movements in the world, with global reach, major investment, and world-class production," he leased on July 31, 2024, and re- turned to performing later that year at Kingston's National Stadi- um before a crowd of thousands.
Since his release, Kartel has ex- panded his international profile with collaborations, major media appearances, and back-to-back Grammy nominations. He has also remained one of dancehall's most influential figures, credited with wrote. "Commercialized does not mean fake or inauthentic. It means expanded, structured, and operating at a world level, and that is some- thing to be respected." Mr Killa also emphasized Grenada's unique Car- nival identity, noting that Jab Jab culture carries "a different vibration" rooted in ancestral traditions, raw expression, and freedom.
"That doesn't make one bet- ter than the other it shows the strength and diversity of Caribbean culture," he added. The controversy also reignited wider conversations surrounding the evolution of Carni- val culture and the globalization of helping launch the careers of art- ists including Spice, Popcaan, and Shenseea.
This summer, Kartel is also scheduled to headline Reggae Sumfest on July 18 alongside fellow dancehall artist Mavado, marking a highly anticipated reunion be- tween two of dancehall's biggest rivals from the 2000s era.
soca music - discussions that have frequently been addressed by Trin- idadian soca icon Machel Monta- no over the years.
Montano, often regarded as one of soca's leading ambassadors on the international stage, has consistently spoken about balancing the com- mercialization and global growth of Carnival while preserving its cul- tural meaning and spiritual roots. Though he was not directly involved in the original exchange, his name became part of the online discussion as fans referenced his longstanding views on the future of Caribbean culture and soca music.
Despite the heated exchanges online, many observers believe the debate ultimately highlighted the richness and diversity of Caribbe- an Carnival traditions rather than division. From Trinidad's globally celebrated spectacle to Grenada's deeply rooted Jab Jab expression, the conversation has once again under- scored how passionately Caribbean people protect and celebrate their cultural identities.
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LIFESTYLE :: TRAVEL AND TOURISM :: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH caribbeantimes.com
ST. JOHN'S, Antigua Prime Minister Gaston Browne has reit- erated that health protocols have been put in place to accommodate travelers from Africa as the island welcomed the inaugural Air Peace flight on Sunday connecting Bar- bados and Antigua and Barbuda. Browne, speaking on his weekly radio program, said his admin- istration's cautious approach had also been influenced both by the current Ebola outbreak in Africa and by the country's previous expe- rience with Antigua Airways flights involving migrants traveling from Cameroon through Nigeria in 2022 and 2023.
"We got burnt there, so we've been a little cautious," Browne said. He told radio listeners that approximately 25 passengers arriv- ing on the new Air Peace service from Nigeria will travel to Anti- gua and Barbuda on LIAT (2020) Ltd, whose main shareholders are the Antigua and Barbuda and Air Peace Caribbean Limited, a joint venture entity incorporated here and is separate from the Nigeri- an-based Air Peace airline.
Browne had said that the Air Peace flight from Lagos would by- pass Antigua and land directly in Barbados "and then the individuals who are scheduled to stay in Anti-
Antigua and Barbuda and Barbados welcome inaugural Air Peace flight gua will probably get LIAT to bring them from Barbados to Antigua". Browne said health authorities will closely monitor the travelers and ensure they are screened upon ar- rival.
"What we will do, though, is to make sure that they're properly screened as best we can," he said, explaining that Antigua and Bar- buda is reinstating enhanced pub- lic health measures, including in- frared thermal scanners and other protocols previously used during the COVID-19 pandemic. "We're putting new health protocols in place, going back to the COVID framework," Browne said.
Last week, the government an- nounced new measures aimed at enhancing public health safety amid concerns regarding the dead- ly outbreaks of Hantavirus, Ebola and Malaria in several parts of the world. The Trinidad-based Carib- bean Public Health Agency (CAR- PHA) Thursday said that follow- ing the declaration by the World Health Organization's (WHO) that the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) has now become a public health emer- gency of international concern (PHEIC), it assesses that the cur- rent risk to the Caribbean region is low.
PHA is urging its member states to maintain a high state of readiness. Because the Caribbean is a major global travel hub, the primary way the virus could arrive is through an infected traveler," said Dr. Lisa In- dar, CARPHA's executive director. Barbados' High Commissioner to West Africa, Juliette Bynoe-Suther- land, described the inaugural flight as an historic milestone in air trav- el.
"We are now going to be posi- tioned most seamlessly from West Africa into Barbados and the wider Caribbean," she said, noting that passengers were making onward travel plans to Guyana, Dominica, St. Lucia as well as Antigua and Barbuda," she said.
"It is one thing in the diplomatic sphere to be talking about bridging the gap between Africa and the Ca- ribbean, it is another thing to have the ability to do so and that has eluded us until Air Peace started this initiative. IT is now monthly, but based on demand, we expect it will increase," she added. The inau- gural flight was also met by officials from the Barbados Tourism Mar- keting Inc., the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)and other stakeholders.
CTO launch scholarship fund for Caribbean Women in Tourism
NEW YORK - The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has launched a new scholarship fund dedicated to empowering the next generation of Caribbean women in tourism at its Caribbean Wom- en in Tourism Leadership Dinner & Awards on June 1. Titled "From Her to Her: From Today's Female Leaders to Tomorrow's Tourism Stars," the program will provide annual support for a promising female student from the Caribbe- an pursuing studies and a career in tourism. All proceeds from the June 1 event will directly fund the scholarship through the CTO and the legacy we aim to build. The CTO Foundation team looks forward to a successful launch and to supporting the next gen- eration of Caribbean women leaders in tourism." Valued part- ners, including Virgin Voyag- es, Diamonds International and TRÈFLE, have already committed support, with Antigua and Barbu- da Tourism Authority sponsoring the dinner event. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to gender equity and leadership development across Caribbean tourism.
The Caribbean Women in Tourism Leadership Dinner & Awards is part of Caribbean Week 2026 celebrations. Tickets are US $199 per person. Space is limited and registration for the dinner closes on Friday, May 22.
Caribbean Week in New York is supported by the following sponsors:
Platinum Elite: United States Virgin Islands
⚫ Gold Elite: Antigua & Barbu- da, British Virgin Islands
Foundation.
The dinner and awards cer- emony at the InterContinental New York Times Square during Caribbean Week in New York will honor leading female luminaries in Caribbean tourism. Honorees will include ministers and direc- tors of tourism from across the region, recipients of the Secre- tary-General's Distinguished Ser- vice Awards, and inductees into a new Hall of Fame designation recognizing outstanding leader- ship.
Gold: The Bahamas, St. Kitts Silver: Sandals, Global Ports tary-general of CTO, fostering Holding, SITA opportunities for women in tour- ism is both a professional prior- ity and a personal passion," said Dona Regis-Prosper, CTO sec- retary-general. "This scholarship embodies the spirit of mentor- ship, legacy and opportunity. We are investing in the talent that will shape the future of our region's most vital industry."
Jacqueline Johnson, Chairman of the CTO Foundation, added: "This initiative effectively cap- tures the spirit of mentorship
• Bronze: Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., Sojern, Travel & Adventure Show, Trove Tourism
• Contributing Sponsors: Di- amonds International, Expedia Group, Travel Unity, TRÈFLE (British Virgin Islands), Virgin Voyages
Regional Nex-Gen Tourism Showcase Sponsors: Inter-Ameri- can Development Bank, Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean
VISIT US AT CARIBBEANTIMES.COM
LIFESTYLE :: FOOD AND DRINK :: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Jamaican chef wins big
Jamaican chef Darian Bryan wins 'Next Level
Chef' crown on Gordon Ramsay show
(BROOKLYN, New York): Ja- maican-born chef Darian Bry- an has been crowned the winner of Season 5 of the hit American cook- ing competition "Next Level Chef," defeating fellow finalists Connor Caine and Nicole "Cole" Law- son in the recent finale. The cu- linary competition series, which airs on Fox Broadcasting Com- pany, began with 24 contestants divided among professional chefs, home chefs and social media chefs. Bryan emerged victorious after a demanding 90-minute finale chal- lenge that required contestants to prepare a full three-course menu across all levels of the show's sig- nature multi-story kitchen.
His win earned him a $250,000 grand prize and a year-long mentorship with celebrity chefs Gordon Ramsay, Nyesha Arrington and Richard Blais. Throughout the competition, Bry- an consistently showcased his Ja- maican roots through his dishes, incorporating flavors and cooking traditions from the Caribbean. Speaking with TV Insider after the finale, Bryan reflected on the sig- nificance of the moment.
"It's just a blessing to show that. I'm coming from Jamaica with not much, and to come here and get crowned king on a stage like this #1 CARIBBEAN RADIO NETWORK IN THE NEW YORK TRI-STATE AREA The Best 24/7 Online Streaming Radio
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Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026 especially, it's a Gordon Ramsay show, and he's been my mentor for the last 15 years of watching him it's just a grace," he said. Bryan said several elements of his final dishes were inspired directly by Ja- maican street food culture.
"Pepper lobster slash pepper shrimp, we have all throughout the Caribbean, all through Jamaica. You see all those folks on the side of the road selling pepper shrimp, and also the escovitch is something you see everywhere,” he explained. The chef added that sticking to Jamaican cuisine throughout the competition was intentional. "I would not have forgiven myself
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS :::: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH caribbeantimes.com
(BROOKLYN, New York): Grenada is celebrating yet another historic achieve- ment after capturing its 19th Gold Medal at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show 2026 in London!
The Spice Isles once again showcased to the world stage our creativity, beauty, and floral excellence. Regarding MOVING GRENADA FORWARD after 19 years of winning gold: The branding is already done. We have the best flowers, interna- tionally.
According to organizers: Now it's time to monetize our reputation: more Grenadians should be growing more, selling more & exporting more. We have the soil, the ideal climate, and the beautiful species of flow- ering plants. Now let's please optimize, and capitalize our potential in the growing and monetization/commercialization of the art and science of the growing of flowers.
Continued from page 1 circumstances, while the standard route re- mains immigrant visa processing through the State Department abroad.
For Caribbean workers, students, nurses, and families already living on tight margins, this is not a theoretical change. It means a Jamaican caregiver, a Trinidadian student, or a Guyanese technician may now have to up- root themselves, travel back island-side, and wait while their U.S. case is finalized.
confusion between ordinary green card trav- el rules and the separate question of adjust- ment of status, which are not the same thing. In plain English: people already holding green cards should be careful about lengthy stays outside the U.S., while applicants still trying to get green cards may need to prepare for a more demanding, overseas process.
tion lawyers quoted in recent coverage say the memo recasts adjustment of status as an "extraordinary" benefit, not an entitlement, which gives immigration officers at overseas embassies more room to deny in-country fil- ings.
For immigrants from the Caribbean, the practical effect is anxiety and delay. For ex- ample, consular processing can involve doc- ument collection, embassy scheduling, med- ical exams, police certificates, and longer waits outside the U.S., all while jobs, leases, and children's school lives remain tied to America.
Still, the larger question is whether the Ca- ribbean diaspora will accept being treated as special risk class in a system that has long depended on its labor, tax contributions, and family stability. If this policy survives legal challenge, it could reshape how thousands of Caribbean migrants plan their futures in America. For now, the message is blunt: the road to a green card may be getting longer, costlier, and far less forgiving for Caribbean immigrants trying to turn temporary status into permanent belonging.
Caribbean immigrants are disproportion- ately affected because many have long relied on U.S.-based adjustment of status after law- ful entry, especially through employment, marriage, or family sponsorship. Long trips back home can trigger scrutiny for perma- nent residents, especially if travel stretches beyond roughly 180 days, which may raise questions about abandonment of residency.
That warning matters in a region where family emergencies, funerals, caregiving, and seasonal travel are part of everyday life. A policy that treats ordinary Caribbean travel patterns as suspicious can make lawful per- manent residents think twice before board- ing a plane home.
This is also a diaspora issue, not just an immigration issue. Caribbean communities in New York, Florida, New Jersey, and Texas depend on steady migration pipelines that support households here and back home through remittances, travel, and caregiving networks. When the pathway tightens, the burden falls hardest on families with the least flexibility the same people who have kept churches, small businesses, remittance flows, and community institutions alive for decades. That is why this policy feels less like a technical update and more like a warning shot.
The new USCIS policy does not repeal section 245(i) of the immigration law, but it can make 245(i) cases harder to win because officers are now told to treat adjustment of status as an exceptional discretionary bene- fit, not just a checklist application.
Section 245(i) is still important because it allows certain people who would otherwise be blocked by issues like unauthorized work or unlawful presence to adjust status in the United States if they were properly grand- fathered under the statute. In other words, 245(i) can still cure some old immigration
Immigrant households should pay close attention to where a case is being processed, whether any travel could complicate status, and whether a pending case now requires a different strategy. There is also the risk of What the official language means
USCIS's new position does not abolish green cards, but it does narrow the path to them by emphasizing discretion and consul- ar processing as the default route. Immigraproblems, but it does not remove the need for USCIS to approve the case as a matter of discretion.
The new memo shifts the focus from sim- ple eligibility to whether the applicant "de- serves" adjustment in the agency's view. That means a 245(i) applicant may still qualify un- der the law, but USCIS can now weigh nega- tive factors more aggressively, including past status violations, unauthorized employment, or failure to leave when expected. So the pol- icy does not erase 245(i); it raises the risk of denial at the final decision stage.
For Caribbean families and others relying on 245(i), this is the key problem: the statute may keep the door open, but the new poli- cy makes the hallway narrower. Applicants should expect more scrutiny, more requests for evidence, and a stronger need to docu- ment positive equities like family ties, tax compliance, community involvement, and steady employment. If the case can be han- dled through 245(i), that remains valuable, but it is no longer a shield against tougher discretionary review.
245(i) survives, but the new USCIS poli- cy makes it less forgiving. It does not cancel the statute; it makes approval less automatic and puts more pressure on the applicant to prove why USCIS should favorably exercise discretion.
Guyana set for historic robotic heart surgery linking surgeons across continents
(BROOKLYN, New York): Guyana is pre- paring to make medical history on Tuesday with what officials say will be a groundbreaking robotic cardiac procedure connecting surgeons in South America and India through advanced remote technology.
President Irfaan Ali announced the develop- ment during Guyana's 60th Independence An- niversary celebrations at Fort Island in Essequi- bo on Monday night, describing it as a milestone in the country's transformation into a modern, technology-driven nation. "We will formally set our footprints in the history of healthcare," Ali said. "The longest-distance surgery in the his- tory of mankind will be performed from the shores of Guyana tomorrow."
According to the President, the procedure will involve a cardiac surgery being conducted remotely, with a specialist based in India work- ing in coordination with medical teams in Guyana. He said the moment reflects the country's broader ambition to position itself as a compet- itive player in global innovation and healthcare.
"This is the country we are building, not afraid to embrace any tool that is necessary to position us as not only a player in the global economy but a competitive player looking to take its place in the front row of global stability, resilience and prosperity," he added.
The operation will use the SSI Mantra ro- botic surgical system, developed by SS Innova- tions, a modular multi-arm platform designed to support minimally invasive procedures with enhanced precision and reduced recovery time for patients. The system enables surgeons to perform complex operations remotely using robotic controls.
Health officials say the technology is expect- ed to expand access to specialized surgical care across Guyana, including outside the capital
Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026 caribbeantimes.com cal outcomes and reducing the need for patients to travel abroad for complex procedures.
The announcement drew strong applause during the Independence ceremony, where it was highlighted as part of what President Ali has referred to as a "Freedom 60" vision for na- tional development.
Georgetown, with potential reach into regions such as New Amsterdam and Lethem. The ini- tiative is part of a wider push by the government to modernize the country's healthcare system through digital and robotic innovation. Officials have described the introduction of the system as a significant step forward in improving surgi-
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Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026
KINGSTON, Jamaica - Health Minister, Dr. Christopher Tufton says the government will be expanding its cancer care treatment across the island over the next two years. This CHEF
Continued from page 23 had I gone in another direction and lost," he said.
In a separate interview with Gold Derby, Bryan became emo- tional while reflecting on his jour- ney from rural Jamaica to winning one of American television's top cooking competitions. "A little kid from Jamaica, growing up in a house with 23 people, no elec- tricity, no running water - and now you're standing there with a $250,000 check," he said, recalling his childhood.
Bryan said his love for cooking began while helping his mother at her cookshop in Jamaica, where he learned to prepare traditional dishes including curry chicken, which he described as the first meal he truly mastered. He also spoke proudly about receiving praise for Jamaican cuisine from Ramsay, one of the world's most recognizable chefs.
"When Gordon Ramsay said my dishes were exceptional, I'm like — listen, this is Jamaican food,” Bry-
HEALTH :: CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Jamaican government to expand cancer care treatment islandwide
SATURDAY JUNE 6, 2026 8:00AM-1:00PM its cancer treatment infrastructure.
As part of the visit the IAEA will be assessing the current linear ac- celerator (LINAC) facilities at the St. Joseph's Hospital in Kingston and the Cornwall Regional Hospital in Mon- tego Bay, St. James. This in a bid to create a road-map to upgrading these locations. Tufton disclosed that the government is also considering estab- lishing a new LINAC facility to serve central Jamaica.
In addition, he noted that the tech- nical team will support the ministry's thrust to extend mammography ser- vices in more hospitals as well as at health centers across the island. Dis- cussions with the IAEA took place as the ministry is participating in the 79th World Health Assembly which is being held this week in Geneva, Swit- zerland.
Barbara Jordan Health & Wellness Center 20612 NW 27 Avenue. Mam Garden FL 33056 Reverend Nathaniel Robon MD, Seur Pastor Ruan & Hart & CEO
Men's Health Symposium set for Miami Gardens to promote prevention and wellness follows a technical meeting between Health Ministry officials and the In- ternational Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Switzerland. According to Tufton, a technical team will be visit- ing the island in the coming months as the Government seeks to build out
(BROOKLYN, New York): Men often delay routine medical checkups and preventive care, a habit health professionals warn can lead to late detection of se- rious conditions. In an effort to address that gap, the Jessie Trice Community Health Sys- tem (JTCHS), in partnership with Mount Hermon Church, will host a Men's Health Sym- posium in recognition of Men's Health Month this June.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, June 6, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the JTCHS Barbara J. Jordan Health & Wellness Cen- ter, 20612 NW 27th Ave. in Miami Gardens. Organizers say the symposium will bring together healthcare professionals, faith leaders and community residents for a morning focused on men's physical and mental well-being, preventive care and access to lo- cal health resources.
more proactive approach to their health," said Ryan R. Hawkins, president and CEO of JTCHS. He encouraged community members to help spread the word
"This symposium is an opportunity to empower men with the knowledge, re- sources and support they need to take a more proactive approach to their health."
- RYAN R. HAWKINS, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF JTCHS
PHOTO BY LORRAINE O'SULLIVAN / FOX. ©2026 FOX MEDIA LLC.
LIV among family and friends. The event is free, though registration Attendees will be able to en- is encouraged. Details and sign- gage with medical experts, gath- up are available at Register here. er health education materials More information about JTCHS and participate in discussions services can be found at JTCHS. aimed at encouraging men to JTCHS is a federally qualified take a more proactive approach community health center serv-
NEXT LEVEL CHEF: L-R: Gordon Ramsay and Contestant Darian in the NEXT LEV- EL CHEF "Building a Legacy" episode airing Thursday, May 14 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/ PT) on FOX.
to their health. Featured speak- ers include Dr. O'Neil J. Pyle, Dr. Elisee Jacques, Dr. Tim Tyler and Ashley Carter, MS, RD, LDN.
ing Miami-Dade County, offer- ing services that include family medicine, dentistry, pediatrics, behavioral health, obstetrics and gynecology, nutrition, pharma- cy and community health pro- grams.
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men
Shan away for a commanding, wire-to-wire triumph. Ba- hamas' Shaunae Miller-Uibo once again finished second, crossing in a season's best 22.04. Former meet record holder Anavia Battle of the United States took third in 22.29 (SB), while 2023 world 100m champion Sha'Carri Richardson placed fourth in 22.38 (SB).
It was a banner day for Ja- maican athletes in Xiamen. Olympic shot put bronze medalist Rajindra Campbell launched a national record of 22.34 meters on his fifth at- tempt to seize victory, outlast- ing Americans Jordan Geist (21.52) and Ryan Crouser (21.41).
In the men's long jump, 2019 world champion Tajay Gayle soared to a season's best
XIAMEN, China - Sheric- ka Jackson sent a thunderous warning to her rivals recent- ly, storming to a season's best and meet record of 21.87 sec- onds in the women's 200m at the Xiamen Diamond League. The victory marked back-to-back wins for the Ja- maican star in the event and delivered the second-fastest time in the world this season, trailing only St. Lucia's Julien Alfred (21.86). Just a day af- ter telling reporters she was "not satisfied" with her 2025 campaign, Jackson left no doubt from the moment she exploded from the blocks.
Running out of lane seven, the two-time world champi- on carved a perfect curve and powered down the straight-
21.87 seconds at Xiamen Diamond League and Area record. Nigeria's Tobi Amusan was second in 12.28 (SB), and Bahamas' Devynne Charlton third in a national record 12.37. Jamai- ca's Megan Simmonds placed fourth (12.62 SB), followed by Ackera Nugent (6th, 12.64 SB) and Danielle Williams (7th, 12.90).
Botswana's Busang Ke- binatshipi blazed to a meet record and world-leading 43.92 seconds to win the men's 400m, ahead of Zam- bia's Muzala Samukonga (44.04) and South Africa's Zakithi Nene (44.40). In the men's 400m hurdles, Brazil's Alison dos Santos clocked a world-leading 46.72 to hold off Norway's Karsten War- holm (46.82 SB), with Amer- ican Caleb Dean third (47.75 SB).
8.32 meters for second place. Greece's double Olympic champion Miltiadis Tento- glou won with a meet record and world-leading 8.46m. Ja- maica's Wayne Pinnock was sixth with 7.93 (SB). Lamara Distin cleared 1.94 meters for third in the women's high jump, while Tokyo World Championships silver medal- ist Orlando Bennett equaled his season's best of 13.20 sec- onds to take bronze in the men's 110m hurdles.
The night's most jaw-drop- ping performance arrived in the final track event. Olympic champion Masai Russell of the United States obliterated her own world-leading time from a week earlier, flying to a stunning 12.14 seconds in the women's 100m hurdles, a new meet, Diamond League,
Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026
ALVES, PATTERSON AND ALEXANDER
STRIKE GOLD AS GRENADIANS DELIVER BIG PERFORMANCES caribbeantimes.com
NEW YORK - Grenadian track and field athletes produced an out- standing series of performances across the United States recently, highlighted by five gold medals, two national records, and sever- al personal best performances. There were impressive results at the National Junior College Ath- letic Association (NJCAA) Track and Field Championships in New Mexico, as well as NCAA Division I Conference Championships in Connecticut, Tennessee, Nebraska, and Alabama.
At the NJCAA Championships, Continued on page 29
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados One of Barbados' greatest ever bodybuilders Albert 'Al' Beckles has died at the age of 95. His death was reported by RxMuscle last week Saturday.
The Barbados-born British bodybuilder, known as 'The Age- less One, had an impressive ca- Continued on page 27
SPORTS caribbeantimes.com
CARIBBEAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
World-class show promised as Guyana Grand Prix officially launched
Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026
BY LENNOX ALDRED
TIMEHRI, Guyana - In just under two months, the South Dakota ARCARS.com
Circuit at Timehri will be trans- formed into an international-stan- dard track as Guyana prepares to make its debut in the GT Challenge de las Americas. Dubbed the Guyana Grand Prix, the third leg of the se- ries is set for July 11-12. At Wednes- day evening's launch event at State House, President Irfaan Ali declared the occasion about much more than racing, emphasizing its vast econom- ic potential.
"This is not only about racing; this is about economics," President Ali said. "We're building out infrastruc- ture; hotels and sports tourism are an important part of what we're building for. This event is part of that holistic vision to situate investments from the private sector with investments from the public sector. We're spend- ing a lot of money in South Dakota, and we're not spending this money without understanding the linkage to the economic spin-off it will bring. Massive economic spin-off."
The Head of State revealed that following the initial investment, Guyana will achieve Level 3 status, with continuous planned. "Our next goal is first to continue this series here and then move towards El races," he added.
Joseph eyes Sri Lanka series as recovery journey nears finish line of next month's limited-overs series against Sri Lanka.
For Joseph, however, the camp represents far more than routine preparation. It marks the latest step in a demanding comeback journey after a lower back injury forced him out of competitive cricket during the latter stages of 2025 and sidelined him from the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
Known for his aggression, pace, and relentless competitiveness, Jo- seph admitted the extended absence
(BROOKLYN, New York): After months of rehabilitation, frustration, and watching from afar, West Indies fast bowler Alzarri Joseph says he is finally closing in on the return he has spent nearly a year fighting to achieve. The 29-year-old Antiguan pacer is back in the regional setup at Cricket West Indies' high-perfor- mance white-ball camp at Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua, where preparations are intensifying ahead
Guyana should aspire to become the region's undisputed motorsport hub. "We should aspire to become the unchallenged home of motor rac- ing in the Caribbean, and why not Guyana? We already possess one of the strongest motorsport cultures in the region, passionate fans, regional tested him mentally as much as physically. "It hurts having to watch on TV and unable to help my team- mates," Joseph said. "It was a tough period having to sit down and not contribute, but I had to focus on re- habilitation, strengthening and con- ditioning to get back into peak form."
The injury interruption came at a difficult time for the fast bowler, who has long been viewed as one of the Caribbean's premier pace prospects and a central figure in the future of West Indies cricket. Yet despite the competitors, skilled mechanics, engi- neers, tuners, drivers and promoters, and most importantly, we possess something priceless: history. The South Dakota Circuit is not merely a track; it is part of Guyana's sporting heritage."
Silvia Bermudez, Marketing and Alzarri Joseph lengthy rehabilitation process, Jo- seph says the work behind the scenes has already begun to pay dividends. Since rejoining the training envi- ronment, Joseph believes his body is responding positively, with the time away helping him rebuild both phys-
Communications lead for GT Challenge de las Americas, hailed Guy- ana's inclusion as a milestone. "The inclusion of Guyana in our calendar is a milestone that reflects the growth of modern sports in the world. We are committed to bringing a world- class show and to making this event the most important held in Guyana every year," Bermudez pledged.
Locally, Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) Presi- dent Mohamad Shairaz Roshandin expressed unwavering commit- ment to the sport's growth. "From racing on the sands of 63 Beach 70 years ago to international stan- dards, we are not just focused on developing our sport; our main objective is to create a tourism product that can benefit all of us. Guyana is on the stepping stone to greatness, and we at GMR&SC will be side by side at every positive action." Organizers confirmed that six Lamborghinis, one Mercedes GT3, one Renault, one McLaren, and four Porsches are among the luxury car lineup for July's event.
ically and mentally.
The fast bowler said he already feels fitter and stronger as he works toward regaining full match sharp- ness ahead of international selection. Even with an established résumé that includes becoming the young- est West Indian to take a five-wicket haul in One-Day Internationals, as well as the fastest regional player to reach 100 ODI wickets, Joseph in- sists he is still far from the finished product. "You can always improve and get better. I never think I'm at my best. There are always skills I can work on," Joseph said.
Joseph also spoke enthusiastical- ly about the emerging West Indies pace battery, which now features Continued on page 30
Both Calder and Bristol also competed in the Shot Put and produced personal best perfor- mances. Calder was sixth with 16.29m, while Bristol finished 12th with 15.24m. In the Men's Javelin Throw, Rayvohn Telesford of South Plains College recorded a personal best of 62.41m to finish sixth. Bris- tol also competed in the event and placed 12th with another personal best of 51.69m.
Shaquane Toussaint of Monroe University also delivered strong performances in the Men's 200 meters. He clocked a personal best 20.26 seconds in the preliminary round and later finished fifth in the final in 20.37 seconds. Shantay Au- gustine of Iowa Western Commu- nity College finished sixth in the Women's 100m Hurdles in a per- sonal best time of 13.67 seconds. She also anchored her team to sixth place in the Women's 4x100m relay in 46.47 seconds.
In NCAA Division I competi- tion, Jamora Alves of St John's Uni- versity emerged as one of the stand- out performers of the weekend after capturing double gold at the Big East Championships in Connecti- cut to secure the Most Outstanding Field Performer award. Alves won the Women's Shot Put with a season's best throw of 15.46m before returning on Saturday to break her own Grenadian national record in the Women's Discus Throw with a winning mark of 55.89m.
Her performances secured qual- ification to the 2026 NCAA Di- vision I East Preliminary Round scheduled for May 27-30 in Lexing- ton, Kentucky. At the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Championships in Alabama, Kelsie Murrell-Ross of the University of Georgia placed third in the Women's Shot Put with 18.02m.
Jamara Patterson of Louisiana Tech continued her impressive sea- son at the Conference USA (CUSA) Championships in Tennessee. Af- ter clocking 52.56 seconds in the Women's 400m preliminary round, Patterson returned on Saturday to win the title in a personal best and meet record time of 51.43 seconds. She later secured a second gold medal after running the second leg on Louisiana Tech's victorious Women's 4x400m relay team.
Continued from page 27 where several Grenadian athletes produced personal best perfor- mances, Suerena Alexander of South Plains College emerged as the lone gold medalist after captur- ing the Women's Javelin Throw title with a new personal best and stadium record of 49.57 meters. She also placed fifth in the Shot Put with a best effort of 13.45m.
Devonni Ferguson of Indian Hills Community College secured Grenada's first silver medal after finishing second in the Men's 400 metres in 46.41 seconds. Ferguson had earlier produced a personal best of 45.77 seconds in the prelim- inary round.
Joshem Sylvester of South Plains College also registered a personal best of 46.16 seconds in the prelim- inary round before placing fifth in the final in 47.00 seconds. Jaylon Calder of Barton County Commu- nity College collected another sil- ver medal for Grenada after finish- ing runner-up in the Men's Discus Throw with a personal best mark of 53.72m. His teammate, DeAndre Bristol, was fifth with a personal best throw of 49.48m.
At the Big Ten Championships Lincoln, Nebraska, Nazzio John of Ohio State University regis- tered fast sprint times in wind-aid- ed conditions. John finished fourth in the Men's 100 meters in 9.90. seconds (5.6 m/s) and later placed in MOTTLEY
Continued from page 11 ket access and Barbados had to un- derstand and apply standards in a practical way and also ensure that it was present at the table when stan- dards and rules were being set in- ternationally. "Without standards, you are not going to have access to a lot of markets," she said, adding that standards allowed producers to speak "the language of the mar- ket" arguing further that regulation should be treated not simply as a compliance issue, but as a potential competitive advantage for Barbadi- an companies.
sector, including Barbados Light & Power, independent power pro- ducers, the Barbados Renewable Energy Association, the Fair Trad- ing Commission, and objectors and interveners, to address the implica- tions of global volatility and domes- tic energy costs.
Mottley said that the government had made a deliberate decision to cushion Barbadians where possible from the pace and intensity of rising energy costs, referring to measures outlined in the national budget in- cluding capping the value added tax (VAT) and the excise tax, as part of government's effort to reduce the immediate pressure on consumers and producers.
financial literacy, new investment structures and greater trust were necessary if local companies were to scale into stronger regional and global players.
A major part of the address fo- cused on energy, which Prime Min- ister Mottley described as being to producers what oxygen is to human beings. She said affordable energy was central to production, compet- itiveness and industrial expansion, and that Barbados had a complex energy challenge due to its small population, high unit costs and vul- nerability to the climate crisis.
She said that government had been meeting over recent weeks with stakeholders across the energy
On the issue of finance, Prime Minister Mottley said too many companies continued to depend almost exclusively on debt as their source of expansion capital, couraging producers to examine other options, including equity and mezzanine capital, and added that the broader development of owner- ship was critical to protecting Bar- badians' relative economic position. She said approximately BDS$15 billion are in domestic savings, earning very low returns, and that enfourth in the Men's 200 meters in 20.23 seconds (7.5 m/s). He also secured a bronze medal in the Men's 4x100m relay as the Buck- eyes clocked 38.72 seconds. This marked the second sub-10-second performance of John's collegiate career. In 2023, while competing for Butler Community College, he ran a wind-aided 9.96 seconds (4.3 m/s) at the Region VI Champion- ships in Kansas.
Meanwhile, at the same championships in Nebraska, D'Angelo 29 Brown of Indiana University es- tablished a new Grenadian nation- al record in the Men's 800 meters with a time of 1:47.69, surpassing the previous record of 1:48.28 held by Nathan Hood since 2022. Sever- al Grenadian athletes will now turn their attention to the NCAA Divi- sion I East and West Preliminary Rounds scheduled for May 27-30 in Lexington, Kentucky, and Fay- etteville, Arkansas, respectively.
By 1975, he was already on the Olympia stage, placing third in the lightweight division. Beckles' pro wins included the 1981 IFBB Grand Prix New England, 1982 Night of Champions, 1982 World Pro Championships, 1984 Cana- da Pro Cup, 1984 World Grand Prix, and 1984 World Pro Cham- pionships.
At the 1985 Mr. Olympia, Beckles finished second to Lee Haney at 55 years old. He also won the 1985 Night of Champi- ons, adding another major title in the same season. Across 13 Mr.
Continued from page 27 reer that included IFBB Universe contests, the Night of Champi- ons, Grand Prix events, World Pro Championships, and 13 Mr. Olympia appearances. Born July 14, 1930, in Barbados, Beckles later moved to London and rose through the British scene.
He placed fifth at the 1965 NABBA Mr. Britain, took run- ner-up finishes at Mr. Britain in 1968 and 1969, then broke through in 1970 with wins at NABBA Mr. Britain and Mr. Eucaribbeantimes.com rope. Beckles won four major Olympia appearances, Beckles recorded six top-five finishes. His best Olympia run included third in 1975, fifth in 1982, fourth in 1984, second in 1985, and fourth again in 1986. Beckles also won the 1991 Niagara Falls Pro Invita- tional at 60, making him the old- est professional male bodybuilder to win the overall title at an IFBB Pro League contest.
amateur titles in 1971. He won NABBA Mr. Britain, AAU Mr. World, the IFBB Mr. Universe medium class and overall title, and the NABBA Mr. Universe medium class and overall title.
In 1973, he won IFBB Mr. Eu- rope in the medium class and overall, then added another IFBB Universe medium-class victory.
safety remain politically sensitive issues, the arrival of third-coun- try nationals under an inter- national agreement was always likely to demand clear, early, and detailed public explanation.
The government has main- tained that relevant national security, immigration, and law enforcement agencies were en- gaged, and that the individuals may return to their home coun- tries if they choose, subject to the laws and immigration re- quirements of those countries. Yet the central question remains unanswered for many across the region: if the Belizean national is free to return to Belize, why was St. Kitts and Nevis selected as the receiving country in the first place?
DEPORTEE
Drew previously acknowledged that St. Kitts and Nevis had been approached by the United States, as had other CARICOM coun- tries, and said his government took a proactive approach in negotiating an arrangement. Re- gional reporting has also noted that St. Kitts and Nevis is among several Caribbean countries to have engaged similar discussions or agreements with Washington. However, critics are likely to ar- gue that proactive diplomacy should not come at the expense of public disclosure. In a small soci- ety where immigration, crime, employment, housing, and public
replace workers faster than new jobs are created, lead- ing to permanent under- employment, widening in- equality, social unrest, and increased concentration of wealth in major technolo- gy companies. These con- cerns are especially serious for workers performing routine knowledge-based tasks and for those without advanced technical skills. Unlike past waves of auto- mation, AI threatens both blue-collar and white-collar jobs.
Some experts argue gov- ernments should act now rather than wait for a crisis. Proposed solutions include large-scale retraining pro- grams in healthcare, skilled trades, AI maintenance, cy- bersecurity, and advanced manufacturing. Others: sug- gest governments should tax AI-driven profits more aggressively so companies replacing workers with au- tomation contribute more to society. Governments may also ties the apology to a broader message about human digni- ty and modern exploitation, linking past injustice to pres- ent ethical concerns.
Christians. Leo explicitly ad- dressed 15th-century papal decrees, including bulls that gave European monarchs au- thority to enslave non-Chris- tians and helped lay the groundwork for the imperial and militaristic Doctrine of Discovery. No pope had pre- viously publicly apologized for the role of the papacy it- self in authorizing slavery in this way.
Leo wrote that it took the Church centuries to fully recognize slavery as con- trary to human dignity, and he called the delay in con- fronting that history a deep moral failure. The encyclical
Continued from page 14 ic apology for the Vatican's role in legitimizing slav- ery, directly acknowledging the Holy See's institutional complicity for the very first time. The apology, issued in his first encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, describes that legacy as "a wound in Chris- tian memory" and asks forgiveness in the name of the Church.
The statement is signifi- cant because it goes beyond earlier papal regret for the participation of individual
Continued from page 15 noses, monitoring patients, and automating scheduling and billing. Radiology and pathology may be espe- cially transformed because AI performs well in image analysis.
ΑΙ offers companies powerful incentives to re- duce human labor costs. AI systems do not require sick leave, vacations, pensions, or breaks, and they allow for 24-hour operations, faster output, and fewer er- rors. If one company cuts costs using AI, competitors are likely to follow.
Many economists believe AI will cause significant un- employment in some sec- tors, though they disagree on the scale. Optimists ar- gue AI will create new in- dustries and new types of jobs, increase productivity, lower prices, and improve living standards, much like the rise of the internet. Others warn AI could caribbeantimes.com
For historians, Catholics, and communities shaped by the trans-Atlan- tic slave trade, the apology carries symbolic weight. It does not erase the harm done, but it marks a rare in- stitutional admission that the Church's authority helped le- gitimize colonial slavery. In that sense, Leo's words may become a turning point in how the Vatican confronts its past.
Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026 bowling attacks. "We want to be the best in the world," Jo- seph said. "I want to challenge for World Cups and leave West Indies cricket in a better position than when I came in."
The ongoing Cricket West Indies training camp con- cludes on May 31, with at- tention now turning toward the Sri Lanka series, which bowls off on June 3 at Sabina Park. For Joseph, the series could represent not only a long-awaited return to inter- national cricket, but also the beginning of a renewed chap- ter in a career he hopes can still help carry West Indies cricket back to the top of the global game.
Continued from page 28 talents such as Jayden Seales, Shamar Joseph, and Matthew Forde. Together, he believes the group has the talent and ambition to restore the Carib- bean side's reputation as one of world cricket's most feared
HATE
Technology does not create morality. We create it. The choice now is sim- ple: we can either let lives- treamers treat racism as a content strategy to mon- etize, or we can make it clear that in our communi- ty, hate is not welcome, on camera or off.
Social media was once sold to the public as a tool for connection, creativity, open conversation. But in too many corners of the internet today, it has be- come something darker: a stage where racism can be performed, rewarded, and even monetized. What used to be confined to private prejudice now plays out in public view, wrapped in the language of "free speech" and boosted by algorithms that reward outrage over dignity.
The problem is not just that racist content exists online. Racist content has and DISCOVER
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BARBADOS tions to crime and violence require broader societal intervention beyond tra- ditional law enforcement measures, reflecting on the Federation's journey in re- thinking and reshaping its response to crime and vio- lence. Drew said that while law enforcement and judi-
Continued from page 16 es that seek not only to reduce crime statistics, but to strengthen communities and improve societal well- being across the region. Drew reminded the audi- ence that sustainable solu-
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VISIT US TODAY ONLINE AT CARIBBEANTIMES.COM need stronger AI regula- tions, including human oversight, phased rollouts, worker transition plans, and transparency about how AI is used. Some sectors could eventually require laws protecting human employ- ment, particularly in edu- cation, healthcare, policing, and public services. With Al's enormous economic potential, governments will likely face growing pressure to ensure the wealth created by AI is distributed in ways that reduce inequality and provide a social safety net.
If managed carefully, AI could reduce dangerous work, shorten workweeks, improve healthcare and ed- ucation, and increase over- all prosperity. The outcome will depend heavily on gov- ernment policy, corporate behavior, worker adapta- tion, and public pressure. Without preparation, the coming years could prove economically and political- ly disruptive.
always existed. The real danger is that livestream platforms have made it more profitable, more im- mediate, and more conta- gious. A racist comment, slur, or confrontation is no longer just a hateful act; it can become a content strat- egy. Attention turns into clicks, clicks turn into fol- lowers, and followers can turn into money. In that system, cruelty becomes a business model.
cial interventions remain critical pillars of national security, lasting solutions demand a more compre- hensive strategy that ad- dresses the underlying social, psychological and environmental conditions that often precede criminal activity.
Continued from page 6 ington "distorts other historical truths about the event it uses as a pretext. "It omits, among other details, the numerous formal complaints filed by Cuba during that period with the State Department, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administra- tion (FAA), and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) regarding more than 25 serious and deliberate vio- lations of Cuban airspace committed by the cited organization between 1994 and 1996, in blatant transgression of interna- tional law and U.S. legislation itself.
"It also ignores public and official warnings issued by Cuban authorities about the inadmissibility of such viola- tions of its airspace and alert messages conveyed directly to the President of the United States about the seriousness and possible consequences of such transgressions.
"Cuba's response to the violation of its airspace constituted an act of legitimate self-defense, protected by the Charter of the United Nations, the 1944 Chicago Convention on International Civil Avia- tion, and the principles of air sovereignty and proportionality."
Cuba said that the United States, which has been a victim of the use of civil avia- tion for terrorist purposes, "does not and would not permit the hostile and provoc- ative violation of foreign aircraft over its CRISIS
Tobago must stay focused, ask hard ques- tions, and demand leadership, account- ability, and solutions instead of noise and confusion. Political pundits say that a nation cannot survive on propaganda while its people suffer in silence. The fu- ture of Trinidad and Tobago depends on whether the population wakes up before it is too late.
Continued from page 19 duced by Robinson, a singer best known for his reggae cover of Bob Dylan's Knocking on Heaven's Door.
Although he was born in Kingston, Ja- maica's capital, Smith was raised in rural St. Ann parish where G Cole was born. They became quick friends after first meeting three years ago. "If you sat with Ernie for a minute or for hours, one thing is for sure, you're going to love him," said G Cole.
ICE
Continued from page 8 zation.
A Notice of Discrepancies indicates ICE cannot determine an employee's eligibility based on the documentation provided. Em- ployers must pass this notice to the employee, who may submit additional proof of authori- zation. A Notice of Technical or Procedural Failures identifies errors in the completion or maintenance of Form I-9 and provides a correction window.
At the conclusion of an inspection, ICE may issue one of the following outcomes: a compliance letter confirming proper adher- ence to requirements, a warning notice, or a Notice of Intent to Fine.
Warning notices are typically issued where violations are identified but future compliance is expected. However, they are not issued in cases involving fraud, repeated violations, or failure to correct earlier errors. A Notice of Intent to Fine may be issued for substantive violations, unresolved errors, or knowingly hiring or continuing to employ
IMF
Continued from page 10 vulnerable, is needed to place public debt on a credible downward path and preserve external stability.
"In this regard, Directors emphasized the importance of closing tax gaps, reducing non-priority transfers, and improving the tar- geting of social programmes. They stressed that higher-than-budgeted energy revenues should be primarily used to rebuild buffers, including through resumed deposits into the Heritage and Stabilization Fund."
territory and would act, as it has demonstrat- ed, with the use of force.
"The inaction of the US government in the face of the warnings issued by Cuba at the time, revealed its complicity in the planning and execution from its territory of violent, il- legal and terrorist actions against the Cuban government and people, a recurring and sys- tematic practice since the triumph of the Rev- olution to present day."
Havana said that it is "highly cynical that this accusation is made by the same govern- ment that has murdered nearly 200 people and destroyed 57 vessels in international wa- ters of the Caribbean and the Pacific, far from the territory of the United States, with the dis- proportionate use of military force, for alleged links to drug trafficking operations that were never proven, which qualify as extrajudicial executions, in accordance with Internation- al Law, and murders, according to US laws themselves.".
unauthorized workers.
Employers found to have knowingly hired or continued employing unauthorized work- ers are required to stop the unlawful activity immediately and may face civil fines, crim- inal prosecution, and potential debarment from federal contracts. If a Notice of Intent to Fine is issued, employers have 30 days to request a hearing before an administrative law judge through the Office of the Chief Ad- ministrative Hearing Officer (OCAHO), part of the U.S. Department of Justice. Failure to request a hearing results in a final order, which cannot be appealed.
ICE classifies several types of Form I-9 errors as substantive violations, including failure to complete the form, missing sig- natures, incorrect or incomplete employee information, or failure to verify work autho- rization within required timelines. Errors in electronic I-9 systems or failure to properly retain records may also result in penalties. Technical errors, such as missing fields or The IMF welcomed Trinidad and Tobago's efforts to strengthen fiscal institutions and address fiscal risks. They commended the authorities for the courageous reforms to the National Insurance System (NIS) and called for further steps to improve the long-term sus- tainability of the public pension system. They also welcomed Port of Spain's decision to adopt a medium-term fiscal framework anchored by a well-designed fiscal rule and a credible debt anchor to manage volatile energy revenues and ensure intergenerational equity.
They concurred that monetary and finan- cial sector policies should continue to support stability. They generally supported moving the It said that "this spurious accusation" 31 against the leader of the Cuban Revolution "adds to the desperate attempts by anti-Cu- ban elements to construct a fraudulent nar- rative in an effort to justify the collective and ruthless punishment against the noble Cuban people, through the strengthening of unilat- eral coercive measures, including the unjust and genocidal energy blockade and threats of armed aggression.
"Cuba reaffirms its commitment to peace and its firm determination to exercise the inalienable right to self-defense, recognized by the Charter of the United Nations," Ha- vana said, adding that "the Cuban people reaffirm their unwavering decision to defend the Homeland and its Socialist Revolution and, with the greatest strength and firmness, their unrestricted and unchanging support for Army General Raúl Castro Ruz".
Caribbean Times | June 4-17, 2026 caribbeantimes.com minor administrative mistakes, may be cor- rected within a specified timeframe. If not corrected, they can be upgraded to substan- tive violations.
Civil penalties are calculated based on the number and severity of violations, adjusted for inflation and the employer's compliance history.
ICE also considers five key factors when setting penalty amounts: the size of the busi- ness, good faith efforts to comply, serious- ness of the violations, whether unauthorized workers were involved, and the employer's prior history of violations. These factors may increase or reduce the final penalty amount.
Separately, ICE may pursue administrative action under federal law against individuals or employers accused of document fraud, including the use or creation of false immi- gration documents. Penalties can include cease-and-desist orders, fines, and removal proceedings for non-citizens found in violation.
policy rate toward a neutral stance to remove the negative interest rate differential with the United States and stabilise capital outflows. "Against the background of declining reserves, Directors also called for efforts to improve the functioning of the foreign exchange market and, over time, move toward greater exchange rate flexibility with appropriate supporting measures.
"They encouraged continued vigilance over the growing sovereign-financial nexus and emerging cyber-security and climate risks. The IMF said that the next Article IV consultation with Trinidad and Tobago will be held on the standard 12-month cycle.
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