On such an auspicious occasion in the history of Trinidad and Tobago, we must be proud of our nation and our achievements over the years. We must remain undaunted in our efforts to highlight the beauty of our country and what we represent.

The National Flag was designed by Trinidadian artist Carlisle Chang. Mr Chang has been involved in the promotion of art throughout his 60-year-long career. There is great meaning and significance behind the creation and design of our National Flag.

The black colour represents for us the dedication of the people, joined together by one strong bond. Red is the colour most expressive of our country; it represents the vitality of the land and its peoples; white is the sea by which these lands are bound, the cradle of our heritage, the purity of our aspirations and the equality of men and women under the sun. Thus, the colours chosen represent the elements of the earth, water and fire, which encompass all our past, present and future, and inspire us as one united, vital, free and dedicated people.

We have all learned the importance of our flag as pupils, being drilled religiously by our teachers in social studies class and learning to draw the flag as perfectly as we can from a very young age. The diagonal line being placed across the upper left corner to the bottom right corner, using our rulers and crayons to ensure that every line was in place and every colour within the margins was just right because it was the National Flag of Trinidad and Tobago. This we learned as children.

It is very disappointing to note that after all that training of the specifics and details of the National Flag over the years, the flags being flown at MovieTowne are depicting the incorrect design— where there is a horizontal line across the middle of the flag instead of a diagonal line from left to right—yet flying high. I am in awe. This is not our flag and a total disrespect to our country. Not to mention the cloth-like images around our Central Bank that appear to be glove-like images and a poor replica of our flag.

This is indeed flag desecration and extremely distasteful. Where are the flags for citizens to fly proudly as they drive by in their vehicles. Even with the arrival of our golden Olympian winner Keshorn Walcott, you couldn't find a flag anywhere to attach to your vehicle. This is the 50th anniversary of our Independence. We want our flags to fly high.

Come on T&T, in a country of world-renowned, talented artistes such as Peter Minshall and Brian MacFarlane where beautiful, premium-quality and professionally designed flags fly high every year, we can do better. Capitalise and take advantage of our creative geniuses, and use this opportunity to celebrate our 50th anniversary in the best way we can. Showcase our talent and creativity and make our people proud. For this is a country where Discipline, Tolerance and Production prevail.

Happy Independence, T&T.

Candice Brown

Arima