By Admin. Updated 1:23 p.m., Friday, December 8, 2023, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).
The organizers of the popular Bagga (Barrouallie) Fish Festival say that unjust disruptions cast a shadow over the future of the festival.
In a press statement sent to One News SVG today (December 8), the organizers said: “In a distressing turn of events, the Bagga Fish Fest, a cultural cornerstone and economic lifeline for the community, has been subjected to unjustified disruptions over the past few weeks”.
“The abrupt and unexplained shutdowns by the police have left the community bewildered and grappling with the economic fallout. Zenna Lewis, the president of the organizing committee, expressed her concern over the lack of communication and explanation from the authorities. The Bagga Fish Fest is not merely a recreational event; it is a lifeline for those whose livelihoods depend on the income generated during these gatherings,” the release stated.
The monthly event, held every first Friday, serves not only as a social gathering but also as a crucial source of income for vendors, fishermen, and shopkeepers who rely on its success to provide for their families, the organizers say.
One News SVG investigated the issue at the community level and found that the issue was resolved around complaints about excessive noise.
Members of the community told One News SVG that the complaints are being made by persons who are part of the community but who act like ‘foreign operatives’ in relation to the important community event.
Several residents say that the complaints are unfounded since the festival is only held once per month.
They told One News SVG that they want the police to side with the majority of the community to allow the festival to go on in a way that is beneficial to all.
As for the organizers, they did not state who or what was behind the “unexplained disruptions” by the police.
In their press press release, they stated that the event, deeply ingrained in the community’s fabric, supports local vendors, fishermen, and shopkeepers, contributing to the economic sustainability of many families. The disruptions, however, have thrown these stakeholders into turmoil, causing financial strain and jeopardizing the limited resources already available in the community.
President of the organizing committee – Ms. Zenna Lewis said she emphasizes the unfairness of the premature shutdowns, urging authorities to provide a clear explanation for their actions. The lack of transparency surrounding the interruptions not only leaves the community in the dark but also exacerbates the financial losses incurred by individuals who depend on the Bagga Fish Fest.
As the Bagga Fish Fest stands at the intersection of culture, community, and commerce, it is imperative for the authorities to engage with the stakeholders and address their concerns. A dialogue between event organizers, local businesses, and law enforcement is crucial to finding a resolution that ensures the event can proceed without unwarranted interruptions, the press release states.
The Bagga Fish Fest is more than a monthly gathering; it is a symbol of community resilience and shared prosperity. The unexplained disruptions not only hinder the economic stability of those involved but also cast a shadow over the cultural significance of the event. As the community calls for answers, it is essential for the authorities to recognize the impact of their actions on the livelihoods of the Bagga Fish Fest stakeholders and work towards a solution that allows this vital event to continue unimpeded, the press release states.
One News SVG 