The Cayman Islands may not make headlines for catastrophic environmental disasters, but the challenges faced by its residents are no less significant. Recent years have seen smaller storms taking a disproportionate toll on the environment, compounded by a surge in construction over environmentally sensitive areas. While the 2001 Environmental Charter outlines sustainable practices, the people of the Cayman Islands, such as organizations like Amplify Cayman, recognize the imperative of nurturing empowered communities to hold the government accountable for its environmental commitments.
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Post-pandemic, the Cayman Islands witnessed a construction boom as the government sought to bolster its economy. Despite a 2001 Environmental Charter with the UK emphasizing sustainable practices, concerns arise over the prioritization of construction over environmental protection. Amplify Cayman, among other organizations, advocates for active community engagement to ensure both government accountability and environmental viability.
In the face of environmental instability due to climate change, a resilient community must unite and speak with one strong voice. Decades of limited civic education left younger Caymanians uncertain about their influence, while older generations became less active in demanding change. Recognizing this gap, organizations like Amplify Cayman actively bridge generations through community building efforts, fostering intergenerational communication and shared understanding.
Amplify Cayman tackles the challenge of dismissed voices by creating channels for community concerns to reach decision-makers. Employing various tools such as open letter campaigns, petitions, and press releases, the organization fosters collaboration by supporting and promoting the initiatives of various organizations across the Cayman Islands. Through long-term efforts, trust-building, and collaboration, community members become partners, forming the bedrock of a resilient community.
Amplify Cayman tackles the challenge of dismissed voices by creating channels for community concerns to reach decision-makers. Employing various tools such as open letter campaigns, petitions, and press releases, the organization fosters collaboration by supporting and promoting the initiatives of various organizations across the Cayman Islands. Through long-term efforts, trust-building, and collaboration, community members become partners, forming the bedrock of a resilient community.
Amplifying voices extends beyond advocacy for Amplify Cayman. The organization believes in the power of each voice as a crucial piece in building a resilient community. Initiatives such as voter registration drives, public surveys, and open letter campaigns empower citizens to actively participate in the democratic process. By capturing the collective pulse on environmental issues, Amplify Cayman ensures that people’s perspectives are woven into policy decisions.
Amplify Cayman stands as a beacon of civic engagement, playing a pivotal role in holistic community building in the Cayman Islands. By addressing challenges, fostering collaboration, and actively engaging the community in environmental advocacy, Amplify Cayman exemplifies the essence of a resilient community ready to face the challenges of climate change. In their commitment to amplifying democracy and providing a platform for marginalized voices, Amplify Cayman contributes significantly to the ongoing journey of building a stronger, more resilient Caymanian community. The promise and persistence of the people of the Cayman Islands serve as an inspiring testament to the potential of empowered communities in shaping a sustainable future.
Showcasing stories of Caribbean organizations at the foreground of the struggle against disaster capitalism in the Caribbean. Our network of participants in the Greater Caribbean region connect, learn, share their hands on responses to the impacts of the twin threats of the climate crisis and disaster capitalism in our region.
WAVE (Progressive Reform Movement)
Global Challenges Research Fund
Open Society Foundations
All Rights Reserved – strongercaribbeantogether.org 2022
All Rights Reserved – strongercaribbeantogether.org 2022
In the tumultuous aftermath of disasters, it is easy to feel isolated and alone, but you are not.
We, a network of Caribbean-wide community organizers who stand in solidarity with those affected the twin threats of the climate crises and disaster capitalism, a phenomenon that exacerbates the suffering of vulnerable communities.
We want you to know that your stories matter. We are here to listen, to support, and to amplify your voices.
We believe that together, we can challenge the forces of disaster capitalism and advocate for more sustainable, inclusive and equitable decision-making.
Join us in solidarity. Share your experiences and let’s build strong communities that thrive together.
As the wider world braces for the climate change, Caribbean communities are already struggling with its effects. Small local communities, small scale farmers and coastal communities are disproportionately affected. Political decisions, power dynamics and laws often compound the catastrophes and silence bottom up solutions.
There are ways in which you can help.