TO OUR GOA WE OWE IT ALL!
HAVING been born on May 24, 1960 I was naturally Portuguese at birth just like any other Goan born before December 19, 1961, Goa’s Liberation Day. After over six decades of very close bonds with Goa and more particularly my birthplace Ribandar, in 2023 I took a heartbreaking but well thought out decision to opt for Portuguese citizenship.
It was deeply anguishing that the Goa Police were working overtime and needlessly burdening the State exchequer in trying to desperately single me out without reason, to prove that I am not an Indian.
Those actions may well have served to propel me to make that call on my future in 2023. But despite all that has happened, my love for Ribandar and Goa, the land of my birth, remains unabated. After all, I may have taken myself out of Ribandar and Goa, but it is not possible to take Ribandar and Goa out of me!
In those decades of serving the soil of my birth, the greatest and most invaluable asset that God has blessed me with, that I will cherish till my very end, is the multitude of friends and well-wishers across Goa from Pernem to Canacona.
In that long journey of standing against corruption and injustice without favour or fear, I have been further blessed with conscientious citizens across the world, which today is evolving as a global village. Long may this strong bond of friendship and blessings from the Almighty continue.
–Aires Rodrigues, London
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY
In a special way,
On this Valentine’s Day,
O God to you I pray.
That those in tears and loneliness
Are helped,
Keep their sadness away,
After they’ve parted from their loved one…
Some day.
Strengthen and heal them some way
With a cheer,
Wipe away their tears,
May all have a Happy Valentine’s Day!
May their family and friends be their support,
As on this day they wish to report,
That as today they are apart,
They will still keep love burning in their heart
To wish joy to all,
I wish and say
A Happy Valentines Day.
–Cajetan Peter D’Souza, Mumbai
DEI IN GOAN WORKPLACES
I AM an octogenarian member of a well-renowned club here in Panjim, and over the years, I have seen many changes –some for the better, others deeply concerning. One such concern is the treatment of staff, which highlights the urgent need for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in Goan workplaces.
Despite their dedication, long-serving staff receive lower pay than newcomers. Hard work and loyalty go unnoticed, while undue stress and low morale plague employees who fear being shown the exit door. Bonuses and increments are selectively granted, with efficient and committed staff often targeted and forced out — whether due to personal biases, excessive workloads, or fabricated complaints.
Take, for example, a former lady banquet manager and a former lady accounts assistant, both of whom were dedicated, efficient, and well-regarded by members. Yet, instead of being appreciated, they were subjected to undue pressure and harassment, and forced out. Now, the same pattern seems to be playing out with the current general manager, who, along with his team, has been highly effective in resolving member concerns –something his predecessors failed to do.
Instead of valuing efficiency and commitment, the system appears designed to sideline those who work with integrity. A high employee turnover speaks volumes about the board’s regard for its workforce. As this club nears a major milestone in the number of years of its existence, its legacy should not just be about longevity but also fairness, equality, and integrity.
Recognizing and respecting differences, providing equal opportunities, and protecting employees from discrimination should be core values — not just for the sake of ethics but also for business performance. A demoralized workforce will only lead to declining service standards, ultimately affecting a company’s reputation.
It is time for workplaces in Goa, including esteemed institutions such as this, to embrace DEI not just in words but in action too.
–Antonio Alvaro Miranda (Assagao, Goa / Ealing, London)