I read with interest the new initiative launched by Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales, “The Shaping Us Campaign” in the U.K.

I understand the objective is to invite the business community, and industry, to play their part in encouraging their employees, some of whom may be parents of young children, to be more aware of their own social and emotional sensitivities, in order for them to influence the positive social growth, and emotional development, of their young children during the first five years.

This is a commendable, and an important initiative. However, should not the focus be on the Early Years sector in particular, within the education system, to encourage parents to prepare themselves for the challenging task of raising responsible, balanced, socially and emotionally adjusted, and productive citizens, as well as to practise good citizenry?

The objective of business, and industry, in terms of human resource, is to employ suitably qualified, well rounded, and productive persons to advance its business, or industrial interests. I believe consideration may be given to formulate policies to enhance the potential of its employees in order to build competence, empathy and understanding towards each other, customers, and business partners that interact within, and with the organisation.

With the greatest of respect to Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales on her nation building initiative, highlighting the importance of The Early Years and the impact it will have on shaping the future of the U.K., I, personally doubt, that such a responsibility should be placed on the shoulders of the business, and industry, communities respectively.

The education system, regardless of what country it is in, goes through great challenges at times to emphasize on parents the importance of focusing on not only academic learning, but also the emotional and social development of their children regardless of what stage the child or children are at. Parents are constantly reminded that children live what they learn, and therefore parents should be cognisant of their own social and emotional behaviour, and be prepared to set a positive and constructive tone for their children to follow. Young children see and experience how their parents interact with others, as well as their parents’ reaction to a variety of situations. Young children notice their parents reading ability, and listen to words used in conversation along with its structure, tone, delivery, and its effect on themselves, and on other persons.

With the greatest of respect to Her Royal Highness, I do not believe that , business, and industry, are facilities to nurture and guide its employees to be better parents to their children aged five and under. This is my opinion on the issue. Others will differ. The Early Years sector in the U.K., may well appreciate a drive to encourage parents of young children to be more fully informed about The Early Years, that may lead to support in various ways from interested parties which may benefit from a future productive workforce.

I believe business, and industry will find The Shaping Us Campaign an excellent nation building initiative. I also believe the focus, direction and emphasis of the Campaign should be on the Early Years Sector, which has the professional knowledge, research, and capacity, to guide the focus of the initiative to become a long term lifetime mission.

I wish Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales every success with The Shaping Us Campaign.

Peace

Louicia

Hello!

What a flying start for England in the World Cup 2022 in Qatar! Total jubilation in defeating Iran 6 – 2 in their first game!

The black players that contributed to the win are the toast of the town. Well done chaps! The question is how long will the accolades last?

Yes! I can hear the moaners and groaners – why does she have to bring race into it? Why can’t she just leave it alone? Well, when the goals were scored it was like someone getting a shot of something which gives a feeling of total euphoria and everything else pales into oblivion. Then all of a sudden down the road if things go wrong, the feeling wears off, aggression rises, and the easiest target gets it – like the missed penalties in Euro 2020.

Happy to see that the black players who endured that torturous time of not only the missed penalties, but the aftermath of the infamous racial abuse on social media, and have risen above that mess to do their talking…

…and it is said racism does not exist in Brit?

You know, the behaviour back then by some of the England fans over the black players missed penalties is no different to the attitude of the former slave owners who were, in many cases, quick to physically whip the black slaves who were not productive in the field, dared to be insolent, or raised a rebellion against their white slave owners. You see, the black slaves were the ‘producers’ of profit for their owner, and lack of production would no doubt have had a detrimental effect on the bottom line. You may argue, but white players are on the field too and take penalties, and miss sometimes. May I remind you, anger may arise there too, but I have yet to hear a white England player(s) in such a situation being described in descriptive racial terms, or verbally abused in such an offensive manner that it makes headline news and public outcry. On the contrary, sympathy for the player is an understatement, and he is encouraged to keep his chin up.

The hypocritical crap needs to be given a rest. We blacks are easy targets, and WE KNOW IT. We must NEVER DO ANYTHING WRONG to put an England, or Great Britain Team in a negative position. NO excuses are acceptable, and that’s that!

It is my personal view ( of which will no doubt be an affront to many), that no black sports person should play for the England National Team representing any sport whatsoever. The Cross of St George, which is at the heart of the Flag of England, and may I add, is the patron saint of England and the English, has absolutely nothing to do with black folk regardless of the fact that the black person was born and raised in England, or was born in another country and is a British Citizen. However, I will thinly compromise with black sports men and women representing Great Britain in sport such as The Olympics as it was the Union Jack that flew over the country or island of our slave ancestors, of our parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents during Crown Colony, as well they being subjects of The Crown. So in honour of them, let it be.

The past has proven that there is ALWAYS a backlash for the black football player, athlete, cricketer or other participatory sport when representing England or Great Britain, especially when they do not come up trumps. I am not suggesting that black players or black sport persons in general should forego their talents, as they are entitled to choose which country they wish to play or compete for. What I am saying, is one should be aware of what the meaning of the flag is they are playing under when it is not of their own country, or country of descent. It is clear to me no one has seen it fit to explain the implications of playing under The Flag of England if the player is not white. It is bad enough black players being verbally abused by foreign fans in an international football competition. So when the home country fans choose to do the same to some of its own National Team players all because they are BLESSED with a black melanin, which qualifies them as an easy target, it causes me to think there is is another issue here.

Now we hear, and have read in the media, that black football players who have chosen to play for France have been subjected to severe racial online abuse because France (another colonial minded European country) lost to Argentina in the final of the World Cup 2022 due to missed penalties! It is claimed, according to a media report, that the abuse came from the Argentinian fans. Where the blame lies is irrelevant.

My word, this is catching on!

I am far from upset on the issue, but rather amused, because European countries that have been built on colonisation, slavery, immigration, and did not have a multicultural society before the ‘foreign colour invasion’ reared its head, cannot help its deep seated intrinsic racist behaviour, and is at its worst when a black player (s), unfortunately, misses a penalty or whatever else to deny that country glory. That exact same attitude applies to anything else we do wrong whether it be unintentional, or by unfortunate error. The black slave was exempt from understanding and sympathy. The same applies to black folk living in white led countries in 2022 and counting…

Oh, before the reader starts on me with this – yes, if a team from a black led country loses out for one reason or another, including missed penalties, there is upset, accusations and whatever. However, a barrage of racial abuse, and derogatory comments is frowned upon as it makes no sense. The citizens of that country and its National Team Players are all in it together.

Out of curiosity it would be interesting to see what would happen if a white player (especially of English heritage) born in a black led country and decides to represent it, but, unfortunately, misses a penalty at a crucial stage of a competition…

Maybe a sequel to the book ‘Noughts and Crosses’ featuring the sport of football could be considered to highlight such a scenario…

Just me folks thinking aloud!!!

My encouragement to ALL black players who find themselves a part of an England National Team, or Great Britain Team – be cognisant of the implications. Focus on being the VERY BEST YOU CAN BE, while shutting out ALL the negatives, but using them to YOUR advantage.

FORWARD!

Be good.

Blessings and peace.

Louicia

Hello!

I was surprised to read in the media of a report, about the experiences of a female black barrister in the course of her duties, within the U.K justice system. It reminded me of the attitude of a white female Career Officer who baulked at the words of a female, 12 year old Black British born, Jamaican heritage child, who had the audacity to aspire to become a Barrister. This was in 1971. I did not become a Barrister, but always maintained my interest in The Law, and especially as I now write.

The Career Officer looked at me quizzically, and said, “Don’t you think that is too ambitious?” I must admit, after quickly getting over my initial shock to her response, I ignored her completely, considered her a fool, not fit to be in the position she was in and to be responded to, nor to advise or guide a child on anything to do with a future career. Furthermore, in my opinion then, she was incompetent as not to give me any useful advice as an impressionable young child. Yes, this was me, at the grand age of 12 years, just entering high school, and was fully aware of how I should be spoken to.

I recall in the 1970’s and 1980’s West Indian born persons who trained in England to become qualified Barristers, and were British Citizens, had a very warm time defending their clients in U.K. Courts of Law. From what I understood then, there were times the respective presiding Judge on the bench went about the business to make it difficult for the black barrister to proceed with the case. This resulted in a diplomatic stand off, and altercation, with the presiding Judge. I am aware Barristers and the direction in which they are proceeding will be called in to question by the Judge from time to time. However, when it becomes a ritual and a commonality to treat a ethnic group of Barristers in a particular manner which suggests a shortcoming(s) for no valid reason, then pertinent questions need to be asked why.

In the 2020’s, according to the report, the black barrister has now been ‘elevated’ to that of ‘misidentification as the defendant’ or at the police station as the ‘mother’ or ‘father’ of the ‘defendant’, or worse yet verbally embarrassed by being told by officials in the Court or Court Building that the black Barrister is either in ‘the wrong place’ or directed to where that person should be as a ‘defendant’ regardless of the official attire worn in Court to defend one’s case. This is what I understand of the media report regarding the experiences of a black female Barrister, and other Barristers, male and female, within the legal profession in the U.K. today.

The humiliation of the black Barrister – male or female, as it was in the past, seems to be ‘all the rage’ now. I would be willing to hear the rationale behind all of this, just in case I have missed something.

Until then, I will express my understanding of the ‘rationale’ of adverse behaviour towards black Barristers in U.K. Courts of Law.

The profession of Barrister, within England, was exclusively for the upper class. Many years later, members outside of that social class chose to train to enter the profession. That, I believe was, and is, now tolerated. However, a ‘colour change’ concerning barristers now entering the profession has brought about, for want of a better expression, a ‘regurgitating’ effect, and is not wanted. Hence the unseemly behaviour that now exists within and without the legal system unabated. I stand to be corrected at any time on my position regarding this issue.

I wish all barristers, regardless of colour, and social class, success in their career. Yet I need to be frank. I do not believe that training of any type to cease social and racial profiling of black barristers, and to enhance social and racial harmony, will meet success in the present climate. If the mindset of the white majority in the legal profession is not willing to change their thinking, the black Barrister should prepare for a VERY bumpy road ahead. All things remain the same since the 1970,’s, and is continuing.

I have no doubt the above will rankle many, but I am tired of the everlasting diplomatic denial ‘merry-go-round’ on the issue.

My conclusion of the matter is that there is a ‘quiet view’ within the U.K. legal profession, and justice system, which maintains the position, that black persons should not be Barristers to defend their people or anybody else against US, and supported by OUR laws. WE are the ones to prosecute, defend, and ultimately convict or acquit, whoever runs foul of OUR laws.

The battle continues…

Time to say it like it is.

Be good.

Louicia

Hello!

Please note: This post was written, prior to the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

It was astonishing to read a report in the media about an authority within Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force (RAF) in the U.K., who took the decision to meet diversity targets by reducing or not listing white men for recruitment in favour of ethnic minorities, and women.

Have you ever heard such nonsense?

The objective of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces, as a united entity, is to defend the realm when called upon. In an effort to be ‘diverse’, the decision taken, could ‘unwittingly’, set up the potential for division within The Royal Air Force ranks on the recruitment issue. If one is not careful, divisions could arise between the indigenous citizens of the U.K., outside of The RAF, and the innocent. Let me be clear, ethnic minorities, and women, need neither favours nor special treatment from The RAF, or from any other area of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces within the U.K. All that is needed is a selection of potential candidates across the board – indigenous, and ethnic minorities – men AND women that demonstrate the desired qualities, both academically and characteristically, with equity, and in line with the requirements to serve in Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force. Numbers will alter from year to year, in terms of the proportion of diversity, but the objective remains.

However, we do not live in an ideal world. The U.K. included. It seems to me that this so-called ‘inclusion’ and ‘diversity’ is nothing more than a charade and a facade, which has fed paranoia rather than promote a sincere effort for racial and social change. It has all come about because of the Black Lives Matter Movement protests. The real objective of that Movement has to do with the disproportionate loss of lives of Black African American men and women on encounter with, or at the hands of U.S. Law enforcement. Elsewhere it has become a term for racial and social justice setting off a ‘panic alarm’ and has been the centre of strenuous effort to create a fake picture, impression, and illusion of racial and social equality. Furthermore, it has disconcerted the mindset of Britain to such an extent, causing not well thought out decisions taken, with no rational foundation, apart from to keep the numbers up of ethnic minorities, keep them happy, and keep the peace. This new fandangle idea by officialdom within Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force is self-defeating, as it is standing in the way of its an own people to serve their own country, while my people and fellow ethnic minorities will  suffer the consequences of a senseless decision. It will be interesting to see if the decision to increase the list of women with the potential for service, will also include a decrease in the number of white women!

So what is the plan here? To have racial disparity in reverse?

Such a decision is supposed to support equality, inclusion, and diversity? The public is to believe that decision is based on rational thinking, logic, common sense, and is in the interest of social and racial harmony in Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force?

Some will say, what is she complaining about? She should be glad ethnic minorities are being included as never before.

My answer to that is, what would be the situation without the Black Lives Matter Movement protests focusing on racial and social justice, although not the true objective of it?

I will save the reader the headache of figuring it out – the ethnic minority disparity would remain the same. The ‘change’ IS NOT’ in the interest of racial and social justice, but for non-ethnic folk to look good. I will go further, ethnic minority disparity along with racial and social justice has been ‘ignored’ for years, centuries, and passed from generation to generation, hence the perpetual battle to be heard. When ethnic minorities are ‘heard’, the defence is put up, a picture of what is not the reality of the issue is created, the deceptive apologies come on stream, upon which we must all move forward and live happily ever after. The truth is, in time, all of the fake equality hogwash will be washed out under the bridge, and will return to the infamous inequality and disparity that existed before, but really never changed in the first place.

If there is no truth to my argument, why does the ethnic minority community keep going around in circles on race, ethnic minority disparities, and inequality, hardly gaining any REAL, EFFECTIVE, and SUSTAINABLE CHANGE – on the issue?

It is for the above reasons why I take the position of, and will forever stand with The Windrush Generation that stepped over the racial and social injustice mess they encountered, made its position clearly known, and challenged their opponents where it could, while continuing to raise their standards and never ceasing to move forward. That Generation knew of the racial and social hypocrisy of Britain, and were not prepared to allow it to rule and control their lives, a second time around.

I was born and raised in England, and did not have the time to waste in a country that did not want to recognise me, but would endure my presence as a black person. Furthermore, I would not have Britain, as a whole, determine my future as to what I can and cannot do. I was not an immigrant there, but I gleaned, and discerned as a child, and as a young adult growing up in England, the indigenous mindset saw me no different to The Windrush Generation.

Imagine.

With the prevailing hypocrisy on race, ethnic minority disparity, and inequality in the U. K., I have ABSOLUTELY NO APPRECIATION NOR SUPPORT for the ‘effort’ made by Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force to recruit more ethnic minorities and women at the expense of reducing or excluding white men from the recruitment process regardless of the Race Relations Act in place. The directive brings out the total stupidity in people who  believe they can implement such a contentious and controversial method to give fair play and equality to the UNDER-REPRESENTED!

What a disgusting term!!!

May I inform those not in the know that ethnic minorities have never been ‘under-represented’. In fact we are well represented. It is those who have taken the decision to ensure that folk like me, and ethnic minorities in general, are either not fully in the picture, thrown in only for good measure, or to blur the reality of what is otherwise a satisfactory and preferred situation to keep non-white folk out of certain positions, and opportunities, as far as possible. Whatever opportunities have arisen to bestow high office to ethnic minorities is nothing but a publicly stunt to fool ethnic minorities that the State is colour blind. It is also amazing to see how ethnic minorities are carefully chosen for certain positions who are very unlikely to attract much attention, unless that person is drawn into a controversial issue. However, I am happy to say ethnic minorities at times do attract positive publicity which is very encouraging, and sheds the spotlight of what my people, and ethnic minorities in general are capable of. To deal with the reality of racism in Britain, it starts by understanding what racism, in fact is, the history of it in Britain, how it is acted out (which is not always obvious), and one has to be prepared to figuratively digest that reality, in order to do battle against it intelligently whether one wants to or not, if the situation is to improve, change, or most likely, to remain the same.

I personally do not believe real change on race, equality, and justice for the ethnic minority community is possible if the mindset and will of The Establishment is not willing to change. However, I do expect the sham ‘inclusion’ and ‘ diversity’ excercises to continue.

It needs to be understood by the State that it is well known, that any action taken on race relations is not necessarily for the benefit of ethnic minorities, but rather to silence the issue and pacify those offended by racial prejudice, for the benefit and peace and quiet of its indigenous people. The sad thing is, positive race relations does not fully permeate society itself, and therefore the negative keeps recurring regardless of what measures are put in place to stem it.

May I add here, that I am not a pessimist on the race issue, but a realist, as this issue has been the forte of Britain for centuries, was very successful as a tool to enable Britain to achieve its political objectives during the days of the Glorious British Empire, is entrenched in its history, and continues to this present day.

And forever more it shall be.

Changes that ARE made are for appearances only. However, I will say again, substituting one race for another, especially reducing the number of white male potential recruits to Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force to serve and defend their OWN country, in the true sense of the word, is the most ludicrous and nutty idea I have ever heard of, and wiIl create more trauma and hostility towards ethnic minorities than what exists now. I am fully aware that my words here are contentious, and will not go down very well, which is the very reason why I write such material.

I wish to show my respect to the Group Captain of Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force who took a principled position on the issue.

Quite right.

Jolly good show.

Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force will not give ear to someone like me. Nevertheless, it would be wise for the recruitment officers to seek potential recruits regardless of colour or gender being an issue. What is of much more importance is that they are seen as p-e-o-p-l-e, particularly my people and ethnic minorities in general, who possess the loyalty, characteristics, qualities, and abilities to serve, and give value added to The Service.

Just like to add here, for the benefit of the younger generation in Britain, that the mindset still sees black people, MY people, as ‘savages’ all because we refuse to be submissive and pander to the will of the supposed superior white population. MY people are very cooperative but will not put up with being treated less than a dog. You may argue that Britain has been nothing like the former apartheid regime in South Africa, nor displayed behaviour as was once the case in the United States towards African Americans formerly termed Negroes. My response is, it does not have to be. The thinking, and the mindset, are VERY powerful tools. Both require no need to display racism in action.

The officialdom of Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force may recall, according to its historical archives, and if such documentation still exists, that ethnic minorities are not a new introduction nor novelty to The Service. Many ethnic minorities, subjects of The British Empire, served in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces in World War I, and World War II. Many died, and many gave exemplary service.

My father’s cousin, a black man, and a Jamaican, served in Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force as a fighter pilot in World War II. I had the opportunity to meet him. To me, on reflection, he appeared to have retained the official stance of an RAF Serviceman, though retired. He was observant, kept his distance, and listened to me intently on meeting him for the first time. At that meeting I was mystified at his standoffish behaviour. I was flummoxed when he advised me one has to be careful on approaching someone for the first time, and how you greet them, as the wrong move may prove offensive as innocent as that move may be on your part. I later recalled my late aunt, who was my cousin’s stepmother, and her words to me of his fighter pilot accomplishments. My cousin was shot down three (3) times by the German Air Force (The Luftwaffe). He found his way, carefully, via friendly forces, used his initiative to avoid detection and capture, and successfully returned to Jamaica to report to the commanding officer (s) at Up Park Camp, Kingston.

I learned from my late aunt that on my cousin’s arrival at Up Park Camp, on all three occasions, together with his report, respectively, was met with much astonishment by the high command of Her Majesty’s British Army.

I also understand from my cousin’s late stepmother that he retired at the highest rank that could be awarded to a fighter pilot serving in Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force at that time.

May I add here that many women from The Caribbean served in The Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) during World War II, with quite a number, at the end of the war, deciding to make England, or the wider United Kingdom, their home.

There are many more feats, conveniently unrecorded and/or untold, of Caribbean airmen, in service to Britain and The Crown, with Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force during World War II, alongside Englishmen also serving as fighter pilots in World War II.

I understand that a book, or books have been written within the ethnic minority community on the exploits of Caribbean servicemen and servicewomen, Indian, and Pakistani Servicemen during World War. I apologise for any error I make here.

So then, in light of history, and with the greatest of respect to the men and women who proudly serve in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces, who are YOU in Her Majesty’s Royal Air Force, as well as the United Kingdom, to do ethnic minorities and women any favours? H’m?

By all means, get inclusion and diversity numbers up, but NOT at the expense of ANY racial, and gender group.

Over and out!

Be good.

Louicia

Hello!

I was not going to comment on Mr. Clarkson’s rant, but I have had a change of heart.

So here it is.

It was interesting to read in the media of the highly offensive comments of Mr Clarkson, published in The Sun newspaper, and now withdrawn at the writer’s request.

It is not the first time Mr. Clarkson has exercised his ‘gift’ of free speech without fear or favour. I expect he will be well supported by many hiding in the shadows and cheering him on.

Imagine. Mr Clarkson could sit and write words about a woman of mixed race, and according to his column, in effect, dreaming that she should be humiliated and dragged through the streets on public display, and the public be allowed to throw excrement at her. It is clear to me that Mr. Clarkson is very sorry that slavery was abolished, in England, and elsewhere, and the slaves emancipated, giving descendants the opportunity to speak their mind.

Mr. Clarkson knew exactly what he was doing when he wrote the column. He wrote it with a deliberate intention to insult, denigrate, humiliate, tarnish the character of, and dismiss as irrelevant Meghan Markle, The Duchess of Sussex on a public scale. His depth of hatred for the lady in question has become a passion to do her harm, although indirectly, by his written words.

Mr. Clarkson, in my view, has done well to prove that racism (but Mr. Clarkson would not regard his words as racist) is the most well entrenched psychological issue in the U.K. in general, and England in particular, against mixed race people, black people, and in fact, any ethnic minority group that dares to challenge its ‘right’ to object to who it sees fit. One does not need to use a descriptive remark, nor act in a manner that is offensive to a person of colour, to prove that a racist attitude and mindset exists. This is the main reason why the practise has ‘successfully’ prevailed in Britain for centuries, and so will it continue.

I could not care less, who finds this post objectionable, as Mr. Clarkson has led the charge on objectionable material, by having his objectionable column put in print. It is not a question of what Mr. Clarkson said that is the only issue. It is also to do with the fact of the impact it is having on showing up HIS people, forcing some to distance themselves from his words, or to voice their disgust.

Meghan Markle, The Duchess of Sussex, is a mixed race woman born in America to a Black African American mother and a Caucasian (white) American father. The Black African American mother link has frightened the hell out of many a royalist, and Anglo-Saxon in England. The Duchess of Sussex is not welcome, and was not welcome from the start, and is in fact hated, on a large scale in England, on having married into The Royal Family, and now is silently resented for mixing up The Royal Blood. I know many will see red with my blatant accusatory remarks and accuse me of purporting falsehoods.

Accusatory – be my guest.

Falsehoods?

What is the point of beating around the bush when the real issue for hating The Duchess of Sussex is exceedingly obvious? With the greatest of respect to Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, I very much doubt he was not aware of an ensuing debacle when it became clear he was dating a mixed race woman, never mind having the intention to marry her. If there is any kind of resolution to be had on this everlasting issue, it begins by getting all the facts and truth of the matter out into the open, come to terms with one’s own issues and prejudices whether one wants to or not, and start the peacemaking process from there.

However, putting out facts and truth is one thing, but not at the expense of the reputation of one’s family- with the exception of experiences being extremely dire or life threatening, which, to me, appears not to be the case. From what I have gleaned from several media sources online, I do not support the book ‘Spare’ by Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex. In my opinion, he should be guarded as to what else he decides to put in print as no good will come of it, and he may well regret his action in years to come.

Please note: this post has been written by a PROUD Black woman of Jamaican heritage, and guess what, was born in England to Jamaican parents from the fair Island of Jamaica! Happy to say, I was well informed by my parents about the indirect racist divisions, and idiosyncrasies of British rule which they learnt much about having  grown up on their beloved island home, during Crown Colony. On migrating to England they both saw those ‘idiosyncrasies’ in action on an even greater scale than on their island home. Like many of The Windrush Generation, I have no doubt Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex, a mixed race American, is also proud of who she is, and knows who she is, which gives her the determination and strength to defend herself against her critics and accusers.

On a personal note, I would have preferred The Duke and Duchess of Sussex to not have gone the route they have taken, that is, the move to the United States, nor the making of the docuseries. Also I will not excuse The Duchess of Sussex for her mockery of Royal traditions, such as the requirement to curtsy in accordance with Royal Protocol. For me, it was an insult in the presence of her husband who is a member of The Royal Family. The exaggerated ‘curtsy’ was uncalled for. Even if it was for entertainment, it was just not on. When one marries into a family, of renown or not, you ‘marry’ everything that comes with it. This is why I believe, strongly, that The Duchess of Sussex should have done her research, and questioned Prince Harry on what The Royal Family is all about, its traditions and protocol, what is expected of her, and more importantly, how she will be received, so that she could have least prepared herself for the onslaught, and to battle it out with a determination to silence the objectors, before taking the plunge. Being ‘starry-eyed’ is not helpful when one makes a decision to enter a world of the unknown. With all of that now under the bridge, and The Duke and Duchess of Sussex having found themselves in the thick of it, they must know their own experience and have, unfortunately, found it necessary to bring it to light.

Regardless of the words and actions of Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, that does not justify an approach to disparage a person’s character because of one’s own prejudice, and considers the personality and attitude of The Duchess of Sussex an affront. In addition, asking the publisher to remove the offending column, and the writer putting up a sarcastic ‘apology’ which is no apology at all pertaining to the matter, will not restore Mr. Clarkson’s dignity because there was none there in the first place to require restoration. Now, as I understand it from the media, the publisher has apologised for publishing the column. That I must say was a good decision which will resolve nothing. On the other hand, It remains to be seen whether the focus of Mr. Clarkson’s column will be willing to accept it.

I decided to delay publishing this post to see what else would arise. Well, according to the media, Mr. Clarkson in his ‘wisdom’ took the decision to email an apology apparently addressed to Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, only. Whether this is protocol, or ‘protocol’ known only to Mr. Clarkson, I will give him the benefit of the doubt. My understanding of Mr. Clarkson’s latest move appears to be an iconic insult, part two, by the gentleman, as he only recognises the husband of The Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, as the fit person to apologise to, who is a member of The Royal Family, which Mr. Clarkson considers ‘senior and superior’ to his wife. As to the matter of the email containing a specific apology to Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, one can only speculate. I challenge Mr. Clarkson to refute my understanding of his latest ‘apologetic’ action.

To be frank, I do not see Mr. Clarkson receiving ANY negative repercussions for writing his words. As I see it, The Establishment is reluctant to take any action against him, and, may I suggest, especially in light of the patriotic support by the staunch royalists, and public support, in certain quarters, for the gentleman, Mr. Clarkson’ s right to free speech is secure.

The damage had been done, which I will conclude, was Mr. Clarkson’s intention.

It is ironic to say this, but I have to say thank you to Mr. Clarkson for making it clear why racism is so fiercely opposed in his country, be it directly or indirectly. It is really not only the ethnic minority community alone that should be fearful of his words, but furthermore, and to a greater extent, his OWN people, some of whom will meet even more resistance than ever against the unacknowledged perpetual, intrinsic, and endemic racist behaviour in Britain.

Mr. Clarkson, my dear, after all is said and done, and in anticipation of who is next on your list to receive disparaging remarks – myself included – please continue to exercise your democratic and constitutional right to free speech – at your peril.

Wishing you well sir.

Be good.

Louicia

Hello!

It was interesting watching a media interview with a Government Minister who is a Barrister by profession. I understand The Learned Counsel bestowed the virtues of The British Empire to the media audience, and declared that it was a good thing. The Learned Counsel received polite applause from the media audience. I ask The Learned Counsel:

Good for who?

Yes, it is true that many institutions established by Britain during the glory days of The British Empire, have proved useful, in helping newly independent nations transition from the state of a former colony to administrate its own affairs. It also left behind negative practises that even after independence the ‘chosen ones,’ who were allowed to work in the institutions during Colonial Administration, still wanted to maintain their position, and still exclude those denied from gaining employment.

Those negative practises led to civil conflict. Not necessarily due to an inability of the newly independent nation to govern itself, but where the poison was laid down to divide a nation against itself whether by colour shade, facial features, type of school attended or whatever else to suit its own intents and purposes – where is ‘the good’ in that?

The institutions that were established during Empire were never meant for the benefit of the natives – the term back then used to describe the indigenous local populace. The institutions were good for Britain. The set up, organisation, running of it, record keeping etc, etc were all established for the efficient running of the Colonial Administration. On the advent of a nation’s independence, I have no doubt, all what needed to be removed by the Colonial Administration for safe keeping in Britain was done so efficiently, leaving what was relevant to the newly independent nation.

The reality is, newly independent nations were left with the remnants of Institutions once run by Britain and had to find their own way thereafter.

Empire being a “good thing”, was only good for those who controlled and administrated it, institutions included. Maybe, The Learned Counsel, if times affords, could clarify the statement for those of us who are not as ‘Learned’, and lack the understanding of Empire, never mind some of those who lived through a period of it.

Be good

Louicia

Hello!

The uproar deriving from the interaction between The eminent Lady and the representative of Sistah Space at the event held at Buckingham Palace, needs to be put in perspective.

Racism! – was the immediate response by those who were offended by the action of The eminent Lady, but has anyone considered the possible reason(s) why the person acted in such a manner? British Society will never move forward on racial issues unless it comes to terms with the root of it, and the depth at which it is endemic, ingrained, institutionalised, and a part of the pattern of Britain to such an extent that it would be hard to recognise Britain without it.

The eminent Lady in question is a product of Imperialism, the era of The British Empire, and has served The Crown, I understand, for many years. The thinking pattern of The eminent Lady lies steadfast in that period of British history. It is my view that on seeing the representative of Sistah Space, The eminent Lady immediately assumed that she was not British, could not accept she was British, could not fathom why the representative was adorned the way she was, and chose to do, unless she was from The African Continent, and therefore chose to ‘interrogate’ the representative regardless of her response, resistance, and offence to the line of questioning.

As for removing her hair or hat, not sure which as media reports differ on that, and which I understand took place, one must bear in mind that the black African people, during British colonial rule were considered uncivilized, uneducated, primitive, and must know their place. The land of the black African was controlled by Britain where its jurisdiction prevailed, the black African was also ‘property’ and treated in any way the colonisers chose to do. This is my interpretation and understanding of the action of The eminent Lady, and therefore would not be surprised if no personal apology was forthcoming as the action was considered normal and justified.

The reaction to this post, if any, will be quite interesting, as I am daring to point out, yet again, that racism in Britain, is a normal trait, as it lies in the mindset among its indigenous people, and has for centuries, but not totally, as many are repulsed by it. Nevertheless, it is, what it is.

I am always pointing out my admiration for The Windrush Generation who were master in their knowledge of the hypocrisy of The British Empire, and its fake appearance of ‘doing good’, which was ultimately in its own interest and with no intention of benefitting nor enriching the indigenous people of the respective island or country to the same degree as itself. There was never any intention to give up any of its colonial jurisdictions before the call by Crown Colonies for independence became apparent, which is the reason for ‘The Commonwealth’ sham business, in my humble opinion. The superiority complex of Empire still exists within the British Aristocracy, so the behaviour of The eminent Lady does not surprise me at all.

Well done to the representative of Sistah Space, Miss Fulani, for standing her ground and responding appropriately to the challenge of The eminent Lady on the line of questioning. The trolls I have read on twitter seem to suggest Miss Fulani has made a fuss about nothing. May I suggest that neither you nor I were privy to the said interaction to hear the tone of the exchange on either side. However, the questioning suggests it was provocative, never mind the interference with Miss Fulani’s person. It needs to be understood by the colonial minded set still existing in Britain that some of us black folk are not afraid to be up front and personal if one is brazen enough to disrespect us when our intention is to respect you. To us colour, culture, traditional dress, custom, or changing one’s name is irrelevant in creating assumptions or judging an individual. Character, is what determines the quality of the individual. Some of the aforementioned is acquired by birth, for others it is a personal choice. With that said, rudeness, interference with the person, using one’s superior position to belittle, or to put the person down, will be met with the approach it deserves.

The resignation of The eminent Lady was unnecessary – YES, unnecessary, because it is not going to alter the position taken regarding what was said, nor resolve any issues on race now, nor in the future. In fact, it has ‘fanned the flames’ of the incident even further. Nevertheless, I respect the decision taken. Issues involving race will always be contentious. It is my personal view that it is how one decides to deal with the issue at the time in question, and thereafter, that will determine the position on both sides, respectively, and agree to disagree, preferably, without contention.

However, publicising the incident was not a good move. ‘Diplomatic’ channels should have been sort to convey disgruntlement on the issue, and evidence retained to prove there was communication with Buckingham Palace. I am not saying this would have brought a satisfactory resolution, but it would have created an awareness of the situation, and avoided the blacklash from members of the public on social media, which is becoming destructive, to say the least.

I hope The eminent Lady will return to the position resigned from in the not too distant future. I do not want my people to be perpetually blamed for causing a stalwart of the Royal Household to stand down. I wish for both parties to find another way, peaceful that is, to resolve the issue. Life is challenging enough as it is.

It seems many are wondering why are black people so sensitive, and keep harping on about race. Well, we too have a history, contrary to popular opinion.

This is part of it.

OUR slave ancestors met YOUR slave owner ancestors, if any, with defiance because of their forceful capture and exploitation against their will. That same defiant spirit LIVES within us, black folk, today, especially towards those who believe we are not entitled to respect, nor anything else, and consider it THEIR RIGHT to ride roughshod over us black folk when it pleases one to do so.

Be reminded. It was never the intention of black folk to create a division between themselves and white folk, nor any group of people different to themselves. That was done for us by others.

Peace

Louicia

Cutting through the flak to deal with what is.

Criticism, without any direction as to what the problem is, how the problem could be corrected, and insight into the way ahead, in my opinion is a waste of time and effort.

Going around in circles seems to be the order of the day. Putting down whoever is even worse.

The return to constructive conversation is needed with long term, and sensible solutions that make sense. We don’t need erractic, insulting, racist, panic driven, nor ‘make them happy’ type of solutions either, as they are associated with fear and illogical thinking.

Reasoned argument with facts, needs a revival. Not soundbites nor emotional outbursts.

Hopefully, this blog will contribute to that. 🤔

Louicia