A free press is a vital institution which must be defended with the understanding that it is essential for the progress and resilience of Caribbean democracy.
This according to chief executive of One Caribbean Media (OCM) Dawn Thomas who was speaking at the presentation of the overall 2025 OCM Bocas Prize for Caribbean Literature and the winner of the 2025 Bocas Henry Swanzy Award for Distinguished Service to Caribbean Letters at the APA Theatre 1, UTT at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA) on Saturday evening.
“(Saturday) is World Press Freedom Day and, as such, I want to highlight the essential role of a free press in our society. A free press is the cornerstone of democracy; it is the vehicle through which truth is uncovered, issues are debated, and voices that might otherwise be silenced are given space to be heard. A healthy, independent media encourages transparency, accountability, and dialogue, elements necessary for our communities to thrive. It is through this openness that we can address pressing social issues, challenge injustices, and promote understanding across our diverse cultures,” she said.
“The importance of a free press cannot be overstated, especially in a region as vibrant and complex as ours. When our media operates freely and responsibly, it empowers our citizens, fosters civic engagement, and helps shape a more inclusive society. We must continue to support and defend this vital institution, understanding that it is essential for the progress and resilience of Caribbean democracy,” she opined.
AI impact
Thomas also spoke about what she described as a “changing landscape that is affecting all areas of our lives including the arts and literature and the rapid development of artificial intelligence.
“AI has begun to influence how stories are created, shared, and consumed. For writers, AI tools can be both a challenge and an opportunity. They offer new ways to craft narratives, conduct research, and even assist in editing and translating works. These innovations can democratise access to storytelling, helping voices that might have previously been marginalised to find their audience.”
She added: “However, as we embrace these technological advances, it is crucial that we remain mindful of the importance of authenticity, human creativity, and cultural integrity. AI should serve as an aid, not a replacement, for the unique voices that define our Caribbean identity. Our stories are rooted in lived experiences, cultural nuances, and emotional truths that no machine can replicate. We must ensure that as our literary landscape evolves, the heart and soul of Caribbean storytelling remain intact.”
15th anniversary of OCM Bocas Prize
Thomas noted that it was the 15th anniversary of the OCM Bocas Prize. “This milestone is more than just a number; it is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, the resilience of our culture, and the vital role that literature plays in shaping our identity and future.
“Fifteen years of supporting and elevating Caribbean voices is a journey we are immensely proud of. When we first embarked on this commitment, our vision was clear: to foster a space where our writers and poets could be recognised, celebrated, and supported,” she stated.
“Over the years, this vision has only grown stronger. We have seen our regional talents rise, earn prestigious international awards, and bring glory to our islands and nations. Many of our previous winners have become ambassadors of Caribbean literature, inspiring countless others and broadening the global understanding of our diverse stories and histories.”
Thomas said she wanted to reaffirm “our unwavering dedication to this noble cause”.
“One Caribbean Media will continue to invest in the arts, in storytelling, and in the voices that represent the heart and soul of our Caribbean communities. We believe that these stories, ‘our stories’ are vital, not only for cultural preservation, but also for societal progress. They serve as a mirror to our struggles and triumphs, as well as a window into the richness of our traditions, languages, and histories.”
Featured Photo: Haitian-Canadian-American writer Myriam J.A. Chancy, centre, poses for a photo with OCM CEO Dawn Thomas, right, and Bocas Lit Fest Founder / President Marina Salandy- Brown on Saturday night after receiving the 2025 OCM Bocas Prize for Caribbean Literature for her novel Village Weavers at NAPA, Keate Street, Port of Spain.
Photo: ROBERT TAYLOR
