The Arc of Sovereignty© 2026 ISBN 978-976-98168-5-5.mp3

The poetic composition, The Arc of Sovereignty: A Conversational Poem in Scholarly Context Barbados's Constitutional Evolution from Independence to Republic© 2026 (1966–2026), offers a unique scholarly examination of Barbados's constitutional trajectory. This literary work analyzes the rhetorical legacies of the nation's Prime Ministers, Governors-General, and Presidents over the sixty-year period from 1966 to 2026, a timeframe designated as the Diamond Jubilee period (Gittens, 2026). By synthesizing primary sources such as official addresses, throne speeches, and government statements, the poem constructs a scholarly yet accessible narrative of the country's democratic evolution. The central thematic focus of the work is the interplay between political rhetoric and constitutional change, specifically addressing issues of sovereignty, the transition to a republic, and the formation of national identity (Gittens, 2026). The poem's methodological approach involves transforming the political rhetoric of the era into verse, a stylistic choice that reflects the oral tradition of Barbadian political culture. In this tradition, speeches delivered at significant national events—such as Independence Day parades, at Heroes Square, and Kensington Oval—function as living documents that shape and reflect national identity. The composition adheres to scholarly citation standards, integrating primary source material to ground its poetic narrative in verifiable historical discourse (Gittens, 2026). A pivotal moment in the period under review is the fundamental constitutional transformation that occurred on November 30, 2021. On this date, Barbados formally transitioned from a parliamentary constitutional monarchy, with the hereditary monarch of Barbados, Queen Elizabeth II, as head of state, to a parliamentary republic. This shift established a ceremonial, indirectly elected president as the head of state, while the prime minister retained the role of head of government. The transition was marked by the election of the country's first president, Dame Sandra Prunella Mason FB GCMG DA SC, the former governor-general, on October 20, 2021, who then assumed office on November 30, 2021 (Gittens, 2026). This constitutional milestone contextualizes the upcoming anniversary on November 30, 2026. The date will be a dual commemoration, marking sixty years since Barbados achieved independence on November 30, 1966, and simultaneously celebrating the fifth anniversary of the republic. The Diamond Jubilee period is therefore not only a reflection on sixty years of nationhood but also a celebration of five years since the nation's transition from a constitutional monarchy to a parliamentary republic (Gittens, 2026).Dr.William Anderson Gittens, Doctor of Divinity

Episode 325 of the podcast, titled "The Arc of Sovereignty: A Conversational Poem in Scholarly Context — Barbados's Constitutional Evolution from Independence to Republic Copyright2026(1966–2026)," features Dr. William Anderson Gittens, D.D., an independent scholar. The associated ISBN is 978-976-98168-5-5.

RECOGNITIONS

As I take a moment to reflect on my journey, I am filled with profound gratitude for the Creator's guiding hand that has led me every step of the way. Life has brought me countless blessings, and at the forefront of these blessings is the immeasurable debt of thanks I owe to my late parents, Charles and Ira Gittens. They bestowed upon me their wisdom and creative spirit, which have been a consistent source of inspiration throughout my life. Their counsel and encouragement continue to resonate within me, shaping my path and purpose. To my beloved wife, Magnola Gittens, your unwavering support has been my anchor in turbulent seas. Your love and understanding provide the strength necessary to navigate life’s complexities. I am eternally grateful for your presence, which comforts and uplifts me. To my brothers—Shurland, Charles, Ricardo, and my late brothers Arno