In an emotional and powerful testimony via the media outlet Live 99 in Bonaire, citizen Layonel Anthony expressed his concern regarding the lack of respect and the unequal treatment locals receive in their own country, compared to how they must behave when abroad.
Respect and Rules Abroad The citizen shared his experience visiting the Netherlands, highlighting that as a visitor, he had to strictly adhere to all the rules of the country. “When you visit any country around the world, you have to respect that country,” he emphasized, pointing out that the same level of respect should be demanded from those visiting our Caribbean islands.
A fundamental point of criticism is the way investments are made in projects that do not necessarily benefit the people of Bonaire directly. He mentioned the development of beach tennis courts as an example, where large sums are spent on sand, lighting, and water, while sports practiced by locals do not receive the same support.
“How is it that we Bonaireans who practice sports are not helped or heard?” the citizen asked. He explained that in his area, people live without electricity or water, relying on generators, while other projects receive all facilities immediately.
Difficulty in Acquiring Housing The sharpest comparison came when discussing the ease of buying a home. According to the citizen, a local must provide an enormous amount of personal and financial information to banks to qualify for a loan, whereas he claims a European Dutchman does not face the same hurdles. For Bonaireans, this is seen as a mode of injustice taking place on their island.
Contrasting this, he pointed out that individuals coming from the Netherlands often arrive and purchase houses or make large investments immediately, frequently without the same requirements faced by locals. The general sentiment is that the local is being pushed aside in their own home, which the citizen considers a very painful situation