There is no shortage of opinions in Barbados. We have had varying positions on hot button issues such as crime, youth deviancy, parenting, the celebration of Independence and republican status, and of course, the controversial Inter-American Development Bank schools questionnaire debacle.Often, some sections of the Barbadian community keep their opinions only to those who share their positions. The subject of race and classism in Barbados, for example, are topics that citizens tend to approach with a level of discomfort.Historians and others who seek to enlighten us about our past of slavery and colonialism can find themselves accused of stirring up disquiet and not allowing sleeping dogs to lie.To speak of our history of slavery, racism, and colonialism will of necessity force us to ask questions about who acquired wealth and how. We will also have to confront the systematic repression of the efforts of black Barbadians to be involved in commerce and to acquire wealth.
