The Republic for which we stand

Whereas the People of Trinidad and Tobago - August 1, 1976


A wedding in Port of Spain

1. have affirmed that the Nation of Trinidad and Tobago is founded upon principles that acknowledge the supremacy of God, faith in fundamental human rights and freedoms, the position of the family in a society of free men and free institutions, the dignity of the human person and the equal and inalienable rights with which all members of the human family are endowed by their creator;


Windshield wipers boys in Woodbrook

2. respect the principles of social justice and therefore believe that the operation of the economic system should result in the material resources of the community being so distributed as to subserve the common good, that there should be adequate means of livelihood for all, that labour should not be exploited or forced by economic necessity to operate in inhumane conditions but that there should be opportunity for advancement on the basis of recognition of merit, ability and integrity;


A tyre worker in Princess Town

3. have asserted their belief in a democratic society in which all persons may, to the extent of their capacity, play some part in the institutions of the national life and thus develop and maintain due respect for lawfully constituted authority;


A man with a glass vial at Green Corner, Port of Spain

4. recognize that men and institutions remain free only when freedom is founded upon respect for moral and spiritual values and the rule of law;


Dancing on carnival Tuesday

5. desire that their Constitution should enshrine the above-mentioned principles and beliefs and make provision for ensuring the protection in Trinidad and Tobago of fundamental human rights and freedoms.

The constitution of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (Preamble)