Dr. Eric Williams said in his ‘Broadcast to the Nation’ on Independence Day, August 31, 1962: “Our National Flag belongs to all our citizens. Our National Coat of Arms, with our national Birds inscribed therein, is the sacred trust of all our citizens… Let us always be able to say, with the Psalmist: ‘Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity’.
Symbolizing the strength of the country and the unity of the people of Trinidad and Tobago, the Trinidad and Tobago Flag provide the sense of security and the sense of pride among the people of the country.
The Trinidad and Tobago Flag, having been adopted on August 31, 1962 represents the trickling warmth of the people. The Red strands of the Trinidad and Tobago Flag stand for the unity of the country, irrespective of its diversity. The color red is the epitome of the strength of the sun, the same that inspires the people to live together and maintain the strength of the country.
Black, in the Trinidad and Tobago Flag, symbolize the growth and the development of the country. It also depicts the ability of the country to endure all the adversities. The color black in the Trinidad and Tobago flag represents the hard work and the diligence of the people.
White in the Trinidad and Tobago Flag, in turn symbolizes the purity of mind and the hope for a better future. The white also symbolizes the bounty of the sea.
If only those whom are hell bent on destroying the very fabric of the society could pause and reflect of the sacrifices of those who came before us then maybe they would pool their resources, their efforts to make the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago a better place to live. As it stands presently, the populace lives in fear because of the actions of these morally devoid individuals. Dr. Eric Eustace Williams, father of the nation, is probably tossing and turning in his grave wondering how could we allow things to get so out of control. We on the other hand must ask, "how did the current leadership get so out of touch with the people's aspirations? Maybe we should forsake building national monuments that are devoid of the spirit of the people and try to salvage the life-blood of future generations - our young people. It has been said that ‘In God we trust, in Man we bust. Take heed Mr. Prime Minister because without the youth our future is hopeless and the national emblems would be insignificant.