Preserving Heritage While Pursuing Progress: In Support of Laura Jn Pierre-Noel's Vision

Laura Jn Pierre-Noel’s stirring appeal on her facebook page for thoughtful development in Castries couldn’t come at a more critical time. Her message—rooted in reason, love for community, and a deep understanding of our cultural DNA—deserves not only applause, but action.

Saint Lucians everywhere, particularly in historic districts like Laborie and Castries, are right to question the cost of progress when it threatens to bulldoze the very soul of our identity. Laura’s call for a balanced approach to justice—one that honors our past while planning for our future—is both timely and necessary. She reminds us that heritage is not a roadblock to development, but rather the compass by which we should steer it.

The Halls of Justice is a noble concept, but if its foundation is laid on the grave of our cultural landmarks—without proper consultation, impact assessment, or genuine community input—then it is justice built on injustice. We echo Laura’s call for transparency and civic engagement. It is not enough for development to be efficient; it must be meaningful, inclusive, and respectful.

Castries is not just a place—it is a narrative. From the steps of the Minor Basilica to the benches of Derek Walcott Square, every stone and tree carries a memory, a legacy, and a lesson. We must not allow ill-placed concrete to silence our history. We must demand that alternative sites be carefully considered, that every voice be heard, and that heritage impact assessments become standard, not optional.

Laura Jn Pierre-Noel stands not just as a candidate, but as a guardian of Saint Lucian identity. Her advocacy is a reminder that leadership means standing firm for the people, for their stories, and for the sacred spaces that shaped them. As the UWP candidate for Laborie, she has shown that she’s not afraid to speak truth to power or fight for justice that uplifts—not erases—our heritage.

In this election and beyond, let us champion leaders who not only build for today but preserve the richness of yesterday. Saint Lucia deserves nothing less.