After years of being in the political arena, John Carey decided to put his views on paper. Just recently, he released his first book called "Political Discourses. Compilation of Columns."
Carey, who formerly wrote columns for the Nassau Guardian, said that it took about two years to complete the book, but it has been all worth the effort. The book is a compilation of articles that he wrote for the Nassau Guardian over a six-year period. The 119-page book takes a critical look at many topics including the importance of voting, the crime rate and public policies. "I started writing guest commentary for the Nassau Guardian in 1998 to 2000 and what I did was to put it in a book form in chronological order and it really gives insight as to why I got into politics. It really challenges Bahamians to become more active citizens in public life as far as being involved in the voting process as well as being involved in the decision-making that goes on in Parliament," he said.
He said that he was able to complete the book with the assistance of Dr. Ruth White, former Principal at Bahamas Academy. In addition, he enlisted the assistance of his father. Dr. John Carey, a former English Professor, Carvel Francis and Booksurge, his publisher. The book is presently available for purchase online and in Target stores in the United States.
Carey says that he hopes his book motivates people to get involved not just criticize government or the political process. "People should be a part of the solution. I, myself, was one of those persons who was frustrated with what I saw going on in the political system and I determined that I would attempt to make a difference. Hence, I got involved and that's why I'm here," he explained.
"I think that Bahamians are very astute people in terms of their understanding of the political process but I think that Bahamians are very lazy when it comes to exercising their real political power. That is, about 93% come out to vote, but after that, they wait for the government to do things," he continued.
Unlike many other countries which lobby for change, Carey said that Bahamians tend to rely on the goodness and goodwill of politicians versus lobbying in numbers. "Numbers scare politicians into action. If 500 people gather on an MP's doorstep, on an issue on any given day, that will wake him up. This challenges people to stop criticizing and get involved. If you have a problem with guns or graffiti in your area, then get numbers and come out and put pressure on your MP. He will have to listen to get some change for that community or face losing an election."
"People must get involved in the political process not just at election time. If you only participate during the elections, I consider that to be one day of democracy and five years of dictatorship. To get involved in active citizenry does not mean choosing any political party. It means using your God-given right to participate in the process to effect change. I'm hoping that this book will raise the consciousness of those who read it to become active citizens," he added.
Carey is a former Mathematics teacher at the C.C. Sweeting Senior High School. He's also been a contributing columnist for the Nassau Guardian and also worked as Area Manager for Texaco. Presently, he is the Parliamentary Secretary at the Ministry of Works and Utilities. He is married to Khichala McDonald-Carey, RN and they are the proud parents of one son, Khalil. In his spare time, he enjoys public speaking, writing and travelling.
By: Betty Vedrine, Lifestyles Reporter, The Nassau Guardian
