Petition Calling For Deportation Of Trinidad-Born Rapper Nicki Minaj Draws Over 45,000 Signatures

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Sun. Dec. 28, 2025: A controversial petition circulating on Change.org is calling for the deportation of Trinidad-Born Rapper Nicki Minaj, born Onika Tanya Maraj.

FLASHBACK – Erika Kirk interviews surprise guest Nicki Minaj on the final day of Turning Point USA’s annual AmericaFest conference at the Phoenix Convention Center on December 21, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. Minaj spoke about her frustrations with California Governor Gavin Newsom, and about why she has embraced the conservative movement. (Photo by Caylo Seals/Getty Images)

The petition has sparked debate online, drawing more than 45,000 signatures as of press time today. The petition, created by an individual identified only as “Pedonika Minaj,” urges U.S. authorities to deport the artist back to her homeland, citing what the petitioner characterizes as ongoing online harassment, controversial public behavior and concerns related to Minaj’s personal associations.

While the petition makes sweeping claims about Minaj’s conduct and mental state, no medical or legal authority has substantiated those assertions. Immigration experts note that U.S. deportation proceedings are governed by federal law and require clear statutory grounds – such as criminal convictions or immigration violations – not online petitions or public opinion.

Still, the campaign’s rapid growth highlights the increasingly blurred line between celebrity culture, social media disputes and immigration rhetoric.

Celebrity, Speech, And Immigration As A Talking Point

The petition alleges that Minaj’s social media activity has targeted other public figures and private individuals, framing the issue as one of public safety and accountability. Minaj, who was born in Saint James, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago and who became a U.S. citizen years ago, has not publicly responded to the petition.

Legal analysts point out that U.S. citizens cannot be deported, regardless of public controversy, and that calls for deportation – particularly when directed at immigrants or naturalized citizens – often reflect broader societal tensions rather than enforceable legal pathways.

“This kind of petition says more about online outrage culture than immigration law,” one immigration attorney told News Americas Now, noting that deportation is frequently misused as a rhetorical threat in digital disputes.

A Familiar Pattern In Online Culture

The petition also reignites discussion about how immigrant and diaspora figures are disproportionately targeted in calls for removal or exile during public controversies – especially when race, nationality, or accent become part of the narrative.

Advocates warn that normalizing deportation as a response to objectionable speech or behavior risks reinforcing harmful stereotypes and undermining due process.

What Happens Next

Despite its growing number of signatures, the petition carries no legal authority. Change.org petitions are designed to signal public sentiment, not to initiate government action.

For now, the campaign stands as another example of how social media conflicts can escalate into broader political and cultural flashpoints—particularly when immigration status, celebrity influence, and public accountability collide.

BACKLASH

The backlash against Minaj, who is married to comes as the rapper appeared at Turning Point USA’s four-day AmericaFest 2026 summit.

On the final day of the conservative conference, the rapper, 43, joined Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, to speak about her newfound admiration for President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

Her remarks led to significant fan backlash, and as of Wednesday last week, her Instagram account now reads: “Sorry, this page isn’t available.” A number of followers, however, pointed out that the “Beez in the Trap” artist had previously quit Instagram, doing so in October. Minaj’s X account remains active.

It came on the heels of her publicly backing President Donald Trump’s allegations that Christians face persecution in Nigeria.

“In Nigeria, Christians are being targeted,” Minaj said at an event organized by the US at the UN, adding: “Churches have been burned, families have been torn apart… simply because of how they pray.”

Analysts say that jihadists and other armed groups have waged campaigns of violence that affect all communities in the West African nation, regardless of background or belief.

Minaj has been open about coming to the United States as an undocumented child. In an emotional social media post in 2018, she called out the separation of families at the border during Trump’s first administration.

“I came to this country as an illegal immigrant. I can’t imagine the horror of being in a strange place & having my parents stripped away from me at the age of 5,” she reportedly wrote in the caption of a photo showing young children separated from their parents at the border being detained.

“This is so scary to me. Please stop this,” she wrote. “Can you try to imagine the terror & panic these kids feel right now? Not knowing if their parents are dead or alive, if they’ll ever see them again.”

New Caribbean Music Drops For Carnival 2026 Season

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BY NAN ET EDITOR

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. Dec. 26, 2025: Carnival 2026 may still be months away, but the road has already started with new Caribbean music. From soca anthems built for trucks and fetes to melodic reflections and riddim-driven collaborations, a wave of new music is landing early – and loudly.

Leading the charge is Bunji Garlin, who returns with “Still A Road Man,” released in both main and acoustic versions. The single, produced under Bad Beagle and exclusively licensed to Diaspora Sound, blends Bunji’s signature grit with reflective lyrics that reaffirm his place as a Carnival mainstay heading into 2026.

Also setting the tone is Nailah Blackman with “Origins,” a polished soca release produced by Stemz and Johann “Madman” Seaton. The track leans into heritage, rhythm, and identity, pairing contemporary soca energy with strong visual storytelling in its official music video.

Veteran energy meets fresh chemistry on “Come Back,” a collaboration between Erphaan Alves and Sheriff, released under Soca Global Entertainment. The track keeps the tempo high while tapping into themes of return and connection that resonate deeply with Carnival audiences.

LISTEN TO IT HERE

Meanwhile, Carnival heavyweight Machel Montano links up with Skinny Fabulous and breakout duo Lil Natty & Thunda on “Pull D Pin,” part of the Monkey Business Riddim. Produced by King Bubba FM, Dwaingerous, and Montano himself, the track delivers high-octane soca crafted for mass movement and crowd eruption.

STREAM NOW

Another standout collaboration comes from Mical Teja and Patrice Roberts on “Capital.” The song blends smooth vocals with modern soca production, while its visuals add cinematic polish to an already radio-ready release.

The Heritage Riddim also arrives as a defining Carnival 2026 project, featuring tracks like Olatunji’s “She Tempo” and “Body Talking” by Chromatics. Produced by Body Roc and Shot Master J, the riddim leans into cultural pride while keeping the energy primed for the road.

LISTEN NOW

Adding melodic balance to the season’s soundscape is Omaiah Hall with “Foreva,” a 2026 soca release produced by SupaYouth Entertainment. The track combines live instrumentation with animated visuals, offering a softer but emotionally resonant Carnival entry.

Rounding out the early drops are https://youtu.be/meea0yyW_RAHealing by Tish Official featuring Evolution The Band, and “Come Down” by M1 aka Menace, Slammer Cutter, and Stemz — both releases signaling that Carnival 2026 will offer depth alongside bacchanal.

With months still to go, the message is clear: the Carnival 2026 soundtrack is already taking shape — and the road is officially open.

How Caribbean Citizenship Programs Are Helping Families Plan A Better Future

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Weds. Dec. 24, 2025: Have you ever thought about settling in a place where life feels calm, systems feel clear, and planning feels manageable?  Many families think about this today while looking at stable options for travel, residence, and long-term security.  Caribbean nations continue to share positive updates around Caribbean Citizenship Programs, and these updates are creating interest because they focus on clarity, comfort, and family support.

Why Caribbean Immigration Updates Are Important Right Now

Caribbean governments are actively sharing official information related to citizenship and residency. These updates help people understand available options without confusion. The focus remains on transparency and smooth processes, which makes planning easier. Just like people prefer clear rules while choosing online services such as slot online platforms, applicants also value clarity when it comes to immigration decisions.

Family-Friendly Structures Gaining Attention

Many citizenship and residency programs in the Caribbean allow applicants to include family members. Spouses and children can often be added under one application. This approach helps families move forward together and plan their future as one unit. It gives peace of mind and keeps things organized.

Clear Guidelines Shared Openly

Authorities provide clear instructions about eligibility, documents, and timelines. This helps applicants prepare properly without stress. When information is shared openly, people feel more confident and relaxed while applying.

Citizenship By Investment Programs In The Caribbean

Citizenship by investment programs continue to receive positive attention. These programs allow individuals and families to apply for citizenship through approved contributions that support national development.

Contribution Options That Support Growth

Applicants can choose contribution paths that support public projects and development plans. These contributions help improve infrastructure and community services. It creates a balanced system where both applicants and countries benefit.

Processing Systems Improving Steadily

Recent updates highlight better application handling and organized review processes. Digital systems help keep applications structured and easy to track. Applicants appreciate knowing the status of their application at every stage, similar to how users prefer smooth and reliable platforms like slot gacor for easy access and clarity.

Transparency And Compliance Remain Strong

Caribbean governments clearly explain verification steps and legal checks. This transparency helps maintain trust and ensures that programs follow international standards.

Citizenship By Descent Options Gaining Interest

Citizenship by descent is another area where Caribbean countries continue to share helpful updates. This option is available for people with parents or grandparents connected to specific Caribbean nations.

A Meaningful Way To Reconnect With Family Roots

Many individuals living abroad are choosing this option to reconnect with their heritage. Governments provide clear guidance on required documents such as birth records and family certificates. This structured approach makes the process comfortable and respectful.

Supportive Guidance For Overseas Applicants

Clear instructions help applicants apply from outside the region without difficulty. This support reduces confusion and helps families complete applications smoothly.

Residency Pathways Across The Caribbean

Residency programs are also part of recent immigration updates. These options are designed for professionals, retirees, and individuals who want long-term living arrangements.

Residency Options For Professionals

Some residency programs support individuals who plan to work or run businesses in the region. Clear income and document guidelines help professionals plan properly before moving.

Comfortable Living Options For Retirees

Residency programs for retirees focus on stability and comfort. Caribbean countries highlight lifestyle benefits and supportive environments, making these programs attractive for long-term living.

Flexible Options For Modern Work Styles

Residency updates also reflect changing work patterns. Clear rules allow people to live in the Caribbean while working remotely. This balance supports both personal comfort and legal clarity.

How These Updates Support Applicants

Official immigration updates help applicants make informed decisions. Clear information supports better planning and removes unnecessary confusion.

Confidence Through Official Communication

When governments share verified details, applicants feel assured. This trust helps them take the next step calmly.

Better Planning For Families

Clear timelines and requirements help families manage finances and plans properly. Knowing what to expect makes the process smoother.

Building Long-Term Trust With The Region

Regular updates show commitment to transparency. This strengthens trust between applicants and Caribbean nations.

Benefits For Caribbean Nations

These programs also support national development and global connections.

Supporting Economic And Social Growth

New residents and citizens contribute to the local economy and community activities. This helps strengthen local systems.

Encouraging Cultural Exchange

Applicants bring diverse experiences and ideas, which add value to local communities and social interactions.

Strengthening Global Relationships

Well-structured immigration programs improve the region’s international standing and cooperation.

Conclusion

In the end, Caribbean citizenship and immigration updates offer clear and positive options for families planning their future. These programs focus on transparency, family inclusion, and long-term stability. With official guidance and structured systems, people can move forward with confidence and comfort. For many, this feels reassuring, practical, and well-organized, much like having clear instructions before making any important life decision.

From Port-Au-Prince To Harlem: How A Haitian Immigrant Handbag Maker Became A Viral Fashion Phenomenon

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Dec. 23, 2025: In a moment when Haitian immigrants are often discussed through the lens of crisis, deportation, or policy debates, Pierre Laborde, a Harlem-based Haitian born designer, is quietly rewriting that narrative – one handcrafted handbag at a time.

Haitian immigrant bag marker Pierre Laborde whose bags have gone viral featured in NY Times

Laborde, a Haitian immigrant and self-taught luxury bag maker, has become an unlikely viral sensation, drawing long lines, sold-out drops, and social media frenzy for his vividly colored, meticulously crafted handbags. Recently featured by The New York Times, Laborde’s story is not just about fashion – it is about Caribbean creativity, immigrant perseverance, and the power of cultural craft in the diaspora.

A Haitian Creative Journey Rooted In Craft

Born and raised in Port-au-Prince, Laborde immigrated to New York shortly after finishing high school, carrying with him a deep love for fashion shaped by Haiti’s tradition of tailoring and personal style. Long before TikTok and viral drops, he was altering fabrics, experimenting with color, and imagining bags that stood apart from mass-produced luxury.

“In Haiti, all my clothes were tailor-made,” Laborde has said, noting that fashion was always personal, expressive, and intentional. That philosophy now defines his handbags — bold, tactile pieces that resist trends and mass replication.

Years Of Quiet Hustle Before The Spotlight

For nearly a decade, Laborde sold his bags at the Grand Bazaar on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, often enduring weeks with few or no sales. He balanced odd jobs, studied fashion design one class at a time at the Fashion Institute of Technology, and turned his Harlem apartment into both workshop and showroom.

There were moments, he admits, when continuing felt impossible.

But persistence – a familiar trait in Caribbean immigrant stories – carried him forward.

A Viral Moment Meets Community Demand

Everything changed when a TikTok video urging viewers to “blow this man’s brand up” circulated late last year. Without major marketing, investors, or fashion-house backing, Laborde’s work found its audience organically. Shoppers began lining up hours early. Drops sold out in minutes. Crowd control systems had to be introduced to keep things orderly.

His bags, now priced between $295 and $1,200, remain handmade, limited, and deeply personal – each reflecting a commitment to craftsmanship rather than scale.

More Than Fashion: A Diaspora Success Story

What makes Laborde’s rise particularly significant is its timing. Haitian immigrants in the U.S. are currently facing heightened scrutiny, the loss of legal protections, and widespread misinformation. Against that backdrop, his success challenges narrow narratives and highlights the economic, cultural, and creative contributions Haitians bring to American life.

His story echoes a broader Caribbean truth: that migration is not merely movement born of hardship, but also a transfer of skill, vision, and cultural capital.

Redefining Luxury Through Caribbean Hands

Laborde’s handbags are not produced in factories or driven by seasonal trends. They are shaped by lived experience, patience, and artistic integrity – values deeply rooted in Caribbean making traditions.

As customers continue to applaud him at market tables and online drops sell out within minutes, Laborde remains grounded.

“There were times I went home with zero dollars,” he has reflected. “So this is overwhelming.”

For many in the Caribbean Diaspora, it is also affirming – a reminder that behind viral moments are years of unseen labor, and behind every “overnight success” is a long immigrant journey worth telling.

Why Guyana Has Become a Core Growth Engine For Massy Group

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By Keith Bernard

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Dec. 22, 2025: On December 18th, 2025, Massy Group released its Management Discussion and Analysis of its Fiscal 2025 operations, which I performed a quick analysis focusing on its Guyana business.

Guyana’s growing importance to Massy Holdings Limited became unmistakable in FY2025, marking a clear progression from its already positive performance in FY2024. While Guyana had been recognized as a high-growth market in the prior year, FY2025 demonstrated that this growth is no longer merely potential but a material contributor to Group results. Strong economic expansion translated into higher consumer demand, improved volumes, and rising profitability, particularly within Integrated Retail and Gas Products. The delivery of double-digit profit growth in gas operations and solid retail performance highlights how Guyana has moved beyond incremental gains seen in FY2024 to become a dependable driver of earnings.

Equally important is the strategic shift that occurred in FY2025. Where FY2024 was characterized by consolidation and groundwork, FY2025 reflected decisive investment in capacity, including new distribution infrastructure to support rapidly expanding demand. Improved governance, forecasting, and working-capital discipline further strengthened cash generation and operational predictability.

In conclusion, taken together, these developments underscore Guyana’s transition from a promising growth story in FY2024 to a central pillar of Massy’s earnings momentum and future expansion strategy in FY2025 – an evolution that deserves broader attention as a case study in how targeted investment and disciplined execution can unlock sustained economic value.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Keith Bernard is a Guyanese-born, NYC-based analyst and a frequent contributor to News Americas. 

New Caribbean Artist Rising: Lylo Gold Breaks Genre Boxes

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By Madelyn Herrera

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. Dec. 22, 2025: When Lylo Gold released her debut album ‘Lylo Land,’ she entered the industry at a moment when Black and Caribbean artists were still being boxed into genres that often reflect race more than sound. The London-based artist, who has Jamaican and African roots, is using the project to challenge how her music is categorized and heard.

Caribbean roots artist Lylo Gold

Breaking Genre Boundaries

As an artist with a Caribbean background, she feels like her music is at risk of being put into a box where she can only delve into one sound. She doesn’t want to be defined by one label or genre just because of her roots.

When I asked her if her sound was influenced by her background, she answered: “Whether or not it’s R&B or it’s reggae or it’s hip-hop, it doesn’t really matter because the essence and the spirit of the music is you.”

“Wherever I am, my Black heritage, my African heritage, my Caribbean heritage and all the people that came before me will always exist in everything I do. From the way that I sing, to the way that I write, to the way that I look at the world,” Gold added.

Black music has evolved in hundreds of ways over centuries. It has always been about blending, bending, and reinventing sound to reflect lived experience and history. From ska and lover’s rock to soul, funk and hip-hop, Caribbean and African diasporic artists have shaped nearly every major genre of modern music.

Gold refuses to accept a label assigned to her because she is Black. Her stance is part of a much longer story in which Black artists have pushed modern music forward in countless ways.

“It’s weird that you need to know when the artist is Black instead of simply acknowledging that the music is Black,” she says. “I think that’s the issue I have with the way African Caribbean music is portrayed.”

For Gold, the problem lies in how Black and African Caribbean music is often pigeonholed into being Afrobeat or reggae, when in truth, all of it belongs to a broader Black musical heritage.

When I asked her why she thinks this is an issue in the music industry, her response was clear: “The categorization of our music is really lazy.”

The mislabeling of Black artists might seem minor in the grand scheme, but that is exactly the problem. Lylo explains, “It’s just a way of limiting the culture to whatever people are comfortable with. And people are comfortable with Black artists making R&B.”

Questions around categorization resurfaced publicly following Beyoncé’s historic wins for Cowboy Carter in 2025. Shortly afterward, the Recording Academy announced changes to its country album categories, introducing distinctions such as Best Contemporary Country Album and Best Traditional Country Album. While the Academy did not explicitly link the decision to Beyoncé’s success, the timing sparked widespread debate within the industry about who is allowed to occupy certain genres and how boundaries are enforced.

Reflecting on that moment, Gold points to a familiar pattern. She notes that when Black artists reach levels of commercial or critical success traditionally dominated by white artists, the standards often shift. “Every time Black people enter that realm,” she says, “it feels like the goalpost moves.”

Lylo’s perspective is informed by years of academic study and deep engagement with music history. During her university years, where she specialized in music, she began to recognize how deeply Caribbean and African cultures are embedded across global genres. From Korean pop and Japanese pop to reggaeton and hip-hop, many contemporary sounds trace their roots back to Jamaican and African musical traditions.

She points to artists like Jimi Hendrix and Big Mama Thornton who have shaped rock and roll. Because music has blended so much today with genres like trap and soul mixing freely, Gold believes that categorizing music is no longer as important as it once was.

Lylo Land And Her Legacy

Lylo Gold is not just critiquing the past and present, she’s creating with her own voice. Her latest release Lylo Land tells a story of heartbreak, healing and self-love. The songs on this album are a blend of influences from across genres, tied together by a distinctive story and theme.

“I was obsessed with how the songs flow and tell a story. It’s about acceptance, growth, and choosing to love again,” she says.

Her music also carries a sense of spirituality, as she believes we are all touched by music in some way. “Everything matters,” she says. “Sometimes I write songs I think are cringe, but I trust that authenticity and vulnerability, because it touches people.”

Her song ‘With You’ celebrates choosing someone and choosing love, which feels refreshing in a landscape where many artists focus on toxic relationships. “It’s so nice to delve into the idea of love. And I think Black girls need to delve into it. So much of our music is toxic love,” she says.

Beyond romantic love, Gold also turns inward. In her song ‘Found Love,’ she explores self-love, a message she hopes resonates with all women, but especially with Black women, as a Black woman herself.

She says, “I am allowed to be a person like everybody else instead of it always being, ‘she’s a strong Black woman.’

I am strong when I need to be strong and I am also lovable when I need to be lovable and soft and emotional and all these other things. Why are we only allowed to have three characteristics?”

Gold allows her fans to feel and resonate with her music however they want. She says, “My job as an artist isn’t to police or decide what people should feel.”

That sense of freedom is at the heart of everything she is creating. She is not just redefining Caribbean sound, she is expanding it, pushing it forward and refusing to let the industry decide where she belongs.

Future Projects

Now that her album Lylo Land is out, she is focused on her next big project beyond the music scene. She is also involved with Hype and Genius, a social enterprise focused on providing resources for emerging creators.

The organization runs programs and music camps and after securing new funding, it plans to invest one hundred thousand pounds into sixty UK artists over the next two years. The aim is to offer paid opportunities, community employment and industry-led masterclasses for artists who often lack access to these spaces.

And when asked about her future in music, Gold says, “I want to make a reggae project. I want to make R&B projects. I want to continue to write all of the things that I do, because all of those exist within who I am. And I just think there is no limit.”

As she moves into this next phase, her focus remains on exploring the full range of her sound and the cultural influences that shape it. Where that leads her is still unfolding, but she is clear on one thing: the music she wants to make will not be confined to the categories the industry has relied on for decades.

Check out her music HERE

Let Caribbean Leadership Shine

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By Dr. Isaac Newton

News Americas, New York, NY, Thurs. Dec. 18, 2025: The recent decision by President Donald Trump to impose U.S. visa restrictions on Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica should not be read as an ending, but as a diagnostic moment. Power has a way of speaking in policy rather than poetry, and when it does, small states are forced to interpret the subtext. The question is not whether the Caribbean has been treated fairly, but whether Caribbean leadership is prepared to respond with clarity rather than reflex.

FLASHBACK – US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth arrives for a meeting with House leadership on the military strikes against drug boats in the Caribbean, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, December 16, 2025. (Photo by SAUL LOEB / AFP via Getty Images)

Visa restrictions are not moral judgments. They are administrative signals shaped by data, trust, and institutional confidence. The real work therefore sits closer to home than to Washington. Leadership must focus on tightening governance systems, aligning regulatory practices, strengthening verification processes, and communicating seriousness through action rather than press statements. International confidence is rarely negotiated in crisis; it is accumulated through quiet consistency.

The vulnerability exposed here is not size but fragmentation. When responses are uncoordinated and reforms are delayed, small states appear uncertain even when they are capable. The global environment rewards countries that plan ahead, manage risk deliberately, and engage partners with preparation instead of protest. Strategic leadership requires foresight, not improvisation.

The Caribbean holds tangible strengths: location that matters, people who adapt quickly, and histories that have sharpened judgment. What remains is the disciplined translation of these assets into durable institutions and credible public administration. Modern sovereignty is not performed. It is practiced daily through reliability, competence, and measured decision-making.

This moment offers a choice. Remain trapped in explanation, or move decisively into reform. Travel restrictions may slow movement, but they do not define destiny. The Caribbean’s future will be shaped by leaders who think beyond reaction, govern beyond excuses, and build systems that work regardless of external pressure. Leadership, when it is deliberate and grounded, becomes its own form of access.

Editor’s Note: Dr. Isaac Newton is a strategist and scholar trained at Harvard, Princeton, and Columbia. He advises governments and international institutions on governance, transformation, and global justice, helping nations and organizations turn vision into sustainable progress.

Bridges Under Strain: Diplomacy, Due Process And The Caribbean U.S. Compact

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By Dr. Sheila Newton Moses

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. Dec. 18, 2025: The United States’ recent expansion of travel restrictions to 39 countries has quietly but significantly drawn several small Caribbean states, including Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica, into a policy framework justified by security, documentation integrity, and immigration compliance. Their inclusion raises a fundamental question for diplomacy. By what measurable standards were these countries assessed, and how were those standards applied?

Two US Marine Corps MV-22 Ospreys depart at Mercedita International Airport on December 16, 2025 in Ponce, Puerto Rico. Aircraft movements and coordinated exercises were observed throughout the day as part of heightened regional military readiness linked to ongoing operations at US military bases and maritime security efforts in the Caribbean. President Donald Trump administration is conducting a military campaign in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, deploying naval and air forces for what it calls an anti-drugs offensive. (Photo by Miguel J. Rodriguez Carrillo / AFP via Getty Images)

Categorized under partial restrictions, these nations are neither deemed hostile nor unstable. Yet their placement alongside vastly different geopolitical contexts invites scrutiny of both the criteria used and the transparency of the process. In international affairs, ambiguity itself carries consequence.

For Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica, the implications extend beyond travel. Their economies are deeply interconnected with the United States through tourism, education, financial services, and remittances. Even a technical perception of elevated risk can undermine investor confidence, disrupt travel flows, and weaken diaspora engagement.

Antigua and Barbuda shares a particularly strong human bond with the United States. Many Antiguans and Barbudans are second and third generation American citizens, woven into U.S. civic, professional, and cultural life. Restrictions that complicate travel for family, study, or business risk straining not only economic ties but the social fabric linking these nations.

This moment also prompts diplomatic inquiry. Were bilateral consultations undertaken before the restrictions were imposed? Was there technical engagement or remediation to address U.S. concerns in advance? Historically, U.S. Caribbean relations have rested on cooperation and shared security interests, including counter narcotics efforts, maritime safety, disaster response, and regional stability. These are not distant partners but neighbors connected by maritime borders, economic interdependence, and decades of coordinated security dialogue.

At its core, this development tests the strength of a long standing relationship. While every sovereign nation has the right to secure its borders, effective diplomacy depends on clarity, engagement, and proportionality, especially among trusted partners. The central question is not whether security matters, but how it is pursued. Collaborative benchmarks and transparent dialogue can address concerns without eroding goodwill.

As Caribbean governments seek clarification and the United States advances its objectives, the durability of this relationship will depend on whether diplomacy once again leads the process, ensuring that longstanding bridges of partnership are preserved rather than weakened.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Sheila Newton Moses is a global consultant, educator, and writer specializing in policy, governance, and institutional accountability. Her interdisciplinary training informs rigorous, evidence grounded analysis that advances equity, collaboration, and durable public trust.

The Setai Expands Global Footprint With New Luxury Resort In St. Maarten, The Setai St. Maarten

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News Americas, MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, Thurs. December 18, 2025: The Setai Hotels, one of the world’s most celebrated names in luxury hospitality and Toronto-based Altree Developments, a leader in international real estate, today announced a strategic partnership and the next chapter in its global expansion.

Vie L’Ven is evolving into its next chapter through a new partnership with The Setai, the globally celebrated hospitality brand known for its refined approach to service and design. The primary hotel will now debut as The Setai St. Maarten, a luxurious 205-key and private villas set along the pristine shores of Indigo Bay. This collaboration marks The Setai’s highly anticipated Caribbean debut and a major step in the brand’s continued growing international portfolio. Expanding beyond its established destinations in the U.S. and the Middle East, this partnership brings together The Setai’s legacy of refined hospitality with Altree’s vision for world-class residential development, merging two forces known for excellence in design, service and craftsmanship. Construction is underway, with completion expected for 2028.

​​“We are thrilled to bring The Setai to the shores of St. Maarten, a destination that perfectly complements our vision of timeless luxury and cultural inspiration,” said the Nakash Family, owners of The Setai. “This project marks an exciting next chapter for our brand as we continue to grow globally, always guided by the principles of authenticity, sophistication, and unparalleled guest experience.”

Committed to redefining Caribbean luxury, the concept for The Setai St. Maarten has been brought to life by renowned partners Studio Munge, HKS Architects and Leading Hotels of The World, all of whom have been recognized globally for their dedication to creating world-class properties.

The Resort offerings will remain anchored with signature amenities that will include a beach club with dedicated cabanas and butler service, a Les Clefs d’Or concierge team, three pools, including an adults-only oasis, a 30,000 square foot Destination Spa, tennis and pickleball courts, on-beach water sports, a children’s playroom, childcare programs and access to a protected nature reserve.

Extending this same standard of excellence to its culinary program, the resort will feature five restaurant concepts, including Ocean Grill Beach Club and Jaya, both inspired by the acclaimed culinary concepts of The Setai, Miami Beach.

Zev Mandelbaum, President and CEO of Altree Developments, shared, “From the very beginning, our vision has been to create something extraordinary for the island. Teaming up with the Nakash family to bring The Setai’s first Caribbean property to life allows us to honor St. Maarten’s beauty and distinct character while shaping a new level of hospitality for the region.”

Blending The Setai’s renowned standard of luxury with the natural beauty of the Caribbean, the resort will feature both residential and hotel accommodations. The Setai St. Maarten will offer an array of spacious one to four-bedroom layouts, spanning from approximately 620 to over 2,000+ square feet and dual key residence options expanding up to 6,000 square feet.

The debut of The Setai St. Maarten marks a defining moment for the island, introducing a level of craftsmanship and service that will position St. Maarten among the world’s most distinguished luxury destinations.

For The Setai St. Maarten sales inquiries, contact Sales Representatives:

Anne-Wytske Hoekstra (annewytske@thesetaistmaarten.com)

Shirley van der Borden (shirley@thesetaistmaarten.com)

You can also call +1-721-544-1545, visit thesetaistmaarten.com, or tour the model suite at the presentation gallery on Indigo Bay Boulevard, St. Maarten. You can find The Setai St. Maarten on Instagram and Facebook.

About Altree Developments

Altree Developments is a leader in the international real estate landscape, rooted in a 70-year multi-generational family legacy in the development industry. Under the visionary leadership of Zev Mandelbaum, Altree is redefining urban living by transforming strategic residential and commercial sites into leading destinations. With an admirable portfolio that includes ultra-luxury condominiums and expansive master-planned communities, Altree’s influence stretches across some of the most coveted addresses in Canada, America, and now, Saint Maarten. Driven by an unwavering commitment to innovation and luxury, Altree’s projects are designed to stand the test of time, offering unparalleled value and shaping the future of urban living. For more information, visit altreedevelopments.com.

About The Setai Hotels

The Setai Hotels is a collection of privately owned hotels that represent a vision of unprecedented luxury and service, with a calm and serene ambiance at the heart of each property. The hotels offer connectivity to their host cities while also creating a discreet escape and utmost privacy for its guests. Its Miami Beach flagship holds membership with The Leading Hotels of the World; is recognized as an AAA Five Diamond hotel and Michelin Guide Key holder; and has been awarded in the Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards, as well as by the coveted Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Award consecutively since 2015. In 2018, the brand introduced the luxury, sophistication and renowned service to Tel Aviv as a LHW hotel in the historic old Jaffa region, followed by a third location in the Sea of Galilee. Looking ahead, the Setai St. Maarten is anticipated to open in 2028 as a LHW property. For more information, visit thesetaihotel.com.

Jamaica To Host Official Celebration Honoring The Life Of Reggae Icon Jimmy Cliff

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News Americas, KINGSTON, Jamaica, Tues. Dec. 16, 2025: Jamaica is preparing to celebrate the extraordinary life and legacy of reggae legend, The Honorable Jimmy Cliff, OM, with an official national tribute that will reflect the joy, music, and cultural impact that defined his career.

FLASHBACK – Jimmy Cliff performs on stage at Bestival 2018 at Lulworth Estate on August 4, 2018 in Lulworth Castle, England. (Photo by Joseph Okpako/WireImage)

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Olivia Grange, announced that the farewell will be an “Official Celebration of a well-lived life,” honoring the wishes of the iconic singer, who made it clear he did not want a somber or traditional funeral service.

“Jimmy didn’t want a sad or somber occasion,” Minister Grange said. “He wanted a celebration of his life, and we are honoring his memory and his wishes.”

OFFICIAL CELEBRATION

The Official Celebration of the Life of Jimmy Cliff will take place on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at the National Indoor Sports Centre in Kingston, beginning at 3:00 p.m., a change from the previously announced 10:00 a.m. start time.

According to Minister Grange, the celebration will be centered on the music that defined Jimmy Cliff’s global legacy. Approximately 20 of his most beloved songs will be performed by some of Jamaica’s leading entertainers, highlighting the artist’s enduring influence on generations of musicians and fans worldwide.

Scheduled performers include Dwight Richards, Tessanne Chin, Nadine Sutherland, Beenie Man, Alaine, Duane Stephenson, and Jimmy Cliff’s daughter, Lilty Cliff, who will join in honoring her father’s musical journey.

The celebration will also feature tributes from officials of state, including Prime Minister Andrew Holness, underscoring Jimmy Cliff’s significance not only as a cultural icon but as a national figure whose work helped shape Jamaica’s global identity. International tributes will be delivered via video by fellow reggae luminaries Ziggy Marley and Shaggy.

Minister Grange encouraged members of the public to attend with the spirit of celebration in mind. “We invite Jamaicans to come prepared to celebrate the life and enduring impact of Jimmy Cliff on Jamaica, as well as on global culture and entertainment,” she said.

Jimmy Cliff, whose career spanned more than six decades, was one of reggae’s earliest international ambassadors, breaking barriers with classics such as Many Rivers to Cross, The Harder They Come, and You Can Get It If You Really Want. His work not only helped bring reggae to the world but also amplified themes of resilience, justice, and hope.

The legendary singer passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 81, leaving behind a musical legacy that continues to inspire artists and audiences across continents.

Wednesday’s celebration is expected to be both a powerful tribute and a joyful reflection of a life dedicated to music, culture, and the soul of Jamaica.

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