We are so absorbed by the disasters of our political system - Antonio Varela
We are so absorbed in the disasters of our political system that we forget to reflect on where we should be - and how far we are from our true potential. We are a unique people.
We are the pearl of the Atlantic - once belonging to Portugal, yes, but forever shaped by the touch of every corner of the world. We have it all: Stunning beaches, majestic mountains, a climate blessed all year round, and above all, a rainbow of people whose beauty and spirit transcend borders and cultures.
If only we could unite the more than one million Cape Verdeans and their descendants scattered around the world - to return, invest and rekindle the promise of our land - imagine the future we could build. Imagine what could have been, and more importantly, what can still be.
You only have to browse social media to see the praise our people receive - from the beauty on the outside to the warm depth that defines us. And there's one word that sums it all up, a word that doesn't exist in any other language: "Morabeza."
It's untranslatable, because no other culture lives this essence like we do. It's exclusively ours.
Let's not let pretty speeches and empty promises from a privileged few rob us of our collective future. We are a resilient people - welcomed, loved and respected in every corner of the world. We are recognized for our honesty, joy, warmth and unity. No matter where we are, or how many years have passed - we carry Cape Verde in our hearts.
I dream of the day when this vision will become reality - and I believe that day is not far away.
To our children - whether they were born in Brava, Boston, Rotterdam or Paris - tell them that they are special, tell them that they are Cape Verdean. Let them learn and be proud of their identity. We may not have gold, diamonds or oil, but we have something more valuable:
We.
The people.
A creation of incomparable grace, strength and beauty.
To all the teachers on the islands: I beg you - read this message to your students. Teach them what it means to be Cape Verdean. Show them that their dignity was forged by the courage of our ancestors - from those who fled persecution in Europe, to those who were torn from African shores in the inhuman trafficking of souls. Their suffering, resistance and dreams have given birth to us - a living fabric of colors, cultures and unbreakable spirit.
We are Cape Verde.
And we haven't finished our story yet.
Antonio Varela
