Our cultural heroes deserve dignity, not criticism

There is something terribly wrong with a society that celebrates its heroes when they are strong, but questions their greatness when they become vulnerable.

A few weeks ago, Canadian actor Michael J. Fox, who has lived with Parkinson’s disease for decades, was honoured for his extraordinary contributions to society and received the Companion of the Order of Canada, the highest rank within the Order of Canada. Canada did not measure his worth by how steadily he could stand, how clearly he could speak, or how long he could remain on his feet. It recognized a lifetime of achievement.

There is a lesson here for Trinidad and Tobago.

Our own David Michael Rudder, affectionately known as King David, is also living with Parkinson’s disease. Yet, despite the physical challenges he faces, this extraordinary son of the Caribbean made the journey to Trinidad to pay his respects to his friend and mentor, the Mighty Sparrow, Slinger Francisco.

He did not travel to perform. He was not hired to entertain. He did not go seeking applause or recognition. He went to honour a king.

When called upon to perform a tribute, Rudder graciously agreed. Despite his condition, he reportedly waited four hours for an opportunity to spend a few minutes honouring the man who helped shape his musical journey. And perform he did.

There were moments when that unmistakable voice shone through, reminding us of the genius who gave the Caribbean some of its most unforgettable musical treasures. There were also moments when his illness made its presence felt.

What followed, particularly some of the commentary surrounding his performance, were deeply disappointing. Afamiliar refrain was, “We love David, but…” But what?

There should be no “but” when discussing the dignity of a man who has given so much to his country, his culture and the world. This is David Rudder, one of the greatest calypsonians ever to put pen to paper. A musical giant whose compositions helped define generations, whose artistry elevated calypso, and whose voice carried Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural identity across the globe.

And now, because illness has affected his physical abilities, some people believe they have the right to judge him by five minutes on a stage? Shame on us. As if his circumstances were not difficult enough, Rudder also suffered the loss of his aunt while in Trinidad. Imagine the emotional weight of grieving two people while managing a progressive neurological illness.

Parkinson’s is a debilitating disease. It does not erase talent, diminish accomplishments or strip anyone of their dignity. We must stop treating our cultural giants as disposable entertainers whose value expires when they can no longer deliver yesterday’s performance.

Michael J. Fox is honoured for what he has contributed, not judged by what his illness has taken away. David Rudder deserves nothing less.

Our heroes are human beings before they are performers. They deserve our kindness, patience, understanding and unconditional respect. My mother always said that if you have nothing good to say, say nothing. Perhaps Trinidad and Tobago should remember that advice.

We still have our King David. He is still among us, still sharing his presence, his courage and his extraordinary legacy. Let us celebrate him while we can. No qualifications. No backhanded compliments. No buts.

Long live the King.

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