The Tribune

By CELESTE NIXON

Tribune Staff Reporter

cnixon@tribunemedia.net

FORMER Member of Parliament and cultural activist Edmund Moxey presented his documentary "The Price of Being a Man: The Ed Moxey Story" - which tells the story of the creation Jumbey Village and the quiet revolution that followed - to Speaker of the House Alvin Smith at the House of Assembly yesterday.

Mr Moxey said this documentary is the story of his life, in particular his political experiences and life-long drive to bring economic, social and cultural upliftment to the Bahamian people.

He said: "It has been a long time coming. It has taken a lot of effort and support to get it done, especially the people of Coconut Grove.

"I hope the content of this documentary will give some inspiration and encouragement to those of like mind who wish to see the Bahamas prosper and grow."

Commending Mr Moxey on his exemplary work, Mr Smith said the documentary transmits the former MP's vision and recommendations for the advancement of urban areas, which are still very relevant today.

The Speaker said: "I know his commitment to culture in the Bahamas has continued long after his time in Parliament."

Born in Ragged Island, Mr Moxey served as the PLP representative for Coconut Grove from 1967 to 1977.

Jumbey Village was conceived by Mr Moxey as a cultural centre to unite a people as they struggled to improve their lot - socially, culturally and economically.

It was envisioned as a centre to be built by the people for themselves. Participants would have a school, library, social centre, clinics, sports, and music of their own, as well as arts and crafts stalls from which they could sell their own creations.

According to a statement issued by Mr Moxey, the support and involvement of school teachers and students was sought and a $60,000 contribution was made toward the construction of the village.

However, when additional money to support the village and the construction of a new community centre were not included in the 1974 budget as promised, Mr Moxey resigned from the PLP.

"I have been a strong advocate for community development and urban renewal since 1967 when the PLP was first elected," he said. "And I can tell you that I literally cried when I found out that they had cut funding for these people projects out of the (1974) budget."

In July 1987, Jumbey Village cultural centre was torn down to make way for the National Insurance Building.

On Sunday, March 11, "The Price of Being a Man: The Story of Ed Moxey and the Undoing of Jumbey Village and the Quiet Revolution" premiered at the Performing Arts Theatre at the College of the Bahamas. It was the 26th anniversary of the destruction of Jumbey Village.

Mr Smith tabled the documentary in the House of Assembly yesterday.