May 26, 2025

Honoring the fallen this Memorial Day

On this Memorial Day, we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in military service – including the many Caribbean nationals and Caribbean-Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice. From World Wars to more recent global conflicts, sons and daughters of Caribbean heritage have served with distinction and courage.

As we reflect on their service, we must also confront a difficult truth: too many lives have been lost to the senseless tragedies of war. It is time for humanity to recognize the deep and lasting harm caused by conflict – and for people of good conscience everywhere to raise their voices for peace.

In honoring their memory, we must recommit to preventing the crises that continue to devastate innocent lives – children displaced from their homes, families torn apart by violence, and communities left in ruin. All human life is precious and worthy of protection. Whether through education, diplomacy, or standing in solidarity with those in need, we each have a role to play in building a more just and peaceful world.

Let us honor their memory not only with gratitude, but with purpose.

Only one week to go for Caribbean Week in New York

The countdown is on! From June 1-6, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) is bringing the star power to Times Square with Caribbean Week in New York 2025. This year’s theme, “Caribbean Resilience: Crafting Tomorrow’s Tourism”, sets the stage for an electrifying lineup of global tourism leaders and cultural icons, including CBS’s Peter Greenberg, Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy, Olympic gold medalist Thea LaFond from Dominica, and bouyon singer Asa Bantan, also from The Nature Island.

With just a week to go, excitement is building around major events like the Caribbean Media Awards, the CTO Reimagine Plan launch, and powerful forums on cruise and airline connectivity, the Orange Economy, and emerging markets.

One of the most anticipated events is the debut of the Caribbean Cultural Showcase on June 5 at The Westin New York at Times Square — a sensory celebration of Caribbean music, food and art. Also not to be missed is the Regional Next-Gen Tourism Showcase on June 3, where student teams from across the region present bold ideas on sustainable tourism.

Whether you’re in media, business or simply passionate about the Caribbean, this is your moment to connect, celebrate and be inspired. Visit www.caribbeanweek.com to register.

Montserrat’s Rosetta West-Gerald brings island wisdom to The Big Apple

To watch video click HERE

In the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s “From the Sea Suite to the Big Apple” video series, Rosetta West-Gerald, CEO of the Montserrat Tourism Authority, shares her deep-rooted connection to the region — shaped by its lush landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture and warm, resilient people.screenshot. To view video click HERE

For her, the Caribbean is not just a destination but a way of life.

She highlights Montserrat’s efforts to ensure long-term sustainability through its Community Environmental Stewardship Program, which educates both residents and visitors on the importance of protecting the island’s natural resources. The program is part of a broader vision to preserve the environment while reinforcing the Caribbean’s identity and appeal.

West-Gerald calls on the region to remain united in how it shares its stories, promotes its brand, and builds a sustainable future

 Watch Rosetta’s message above.