Unity, Inclusion, and Action: The Mission of Caribbean Diaspora United and the Launch of the CDU Disaster Fund

By Janet Howard

As Caribbean communities grow in size and influence across the United States, the importance of unity, cultural preservation, and civic engagement has never been more pressing. At the heart of these efforts is Caribbean Diaspora United Inc. (CDU), an organization steadfast in its mission to uplift the Caribbean community through advocacy, action, and celebration.

In a recent interview with Caribbean American Weekly, Eugene Pursoo, President of CDU, shared insight into the organization’s vision and the upcoming Community Unity Breakfast, a pivotal event that takes place on Saturday, July 12, at Russo’s on the Bay in Howard Beach, New York.

A Vision Rooted in Unity and Service

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CDU’s foundational mission is twofold: to foster betterment in the communities where Caribbean people reside and to make a meaningful contribution to the development of the Caribbean region itself. “We believe that by improving our communities here, we also uplift the entire diaspora,” Pursoo emphasized. “And we are equally committed to supporting progress in the Caribbean, especially in times of crisis.”

CDU’s work is guided by a network of dedicated community committees that assess specific needs and coordinate local and international responsive efforts.

The Community Unity Breakfast: Celebrating Inclusion

This year’s Community Unity Breakfast carries the powerful “Unity and Inclusion” theme, emphasizing cross-cultural connection and rejecting isolationism. “When we speak of inclusion, we’re speaking especially about African-American communities and all those who share space with us in the diaspora,” said Pursoo. “Unity isn’t just aspirational—it’s essential.”

A major breakfast highlight will be keynote remarks by The Honorable Pennelope Beckles, the Opposition leader in Trinidad and Tobago. Beckles, formerly the nation’s UN Ambassador, is the first female leader of the People’s National Movement (PNM). Her inclusion as keynote speaker reflects CDU’s intent to honor and uplift women of historic achievement.

“I’ve admired her work and leadership,” said Pursoo. “We hope her message will inspire hope and a renewed commitment to regional cooperation—from security and economics to culture and sports.”

Introducing the CDU Disaster Fund

One of the most impactful initiatives to be launched at the event is the CDU Disaster Fund, a proactive, sustainable effort to support Caribbean nations after hurricanes and other disasters, a cause that urgently needs your support.

“As a region, we face annual threats from natural disasters,” Pursoo explained. “And while our community always rises to the occasion, we want to be prepared. No more scrambling for fish fries or chicken dinners after disaster strikes. We’re building an annual fund, targeting contributions from corporations, donors, and community members so we can respond immediately and effectively.”

A CDU-appointed committee will manage this fund, which will be disbursed swiftly to areas affected by disasters, ensuring timely and organized relief efforts.

Empowering the Next Generation, Honoring the Past

Beyond immediate relief, CDU is also investing in long-term community empowerment. Two new initiatives are set to launch this year, each of which underscores the value of intergenerational connections:

1. Council of Elders – to honor and retain the wisdom and dignity of senior leaders in the Caribbean community.
2. Youth Brigade – a leadership and mentorship program that includes short-term study abroad opportunities to Caribbean islands, helping youth connect with their heritage and understand the region’s beauty and challenges firsthand.

“These programs are about creating intergenerational bridges,” said Pursoo. “Respecting our elders and investing in our youth are non-negotiables for the health of our community.”

Building a Virtual Caribbean Hall of Fame

Another ambitious project CDU is undertaking is the creation of a Virtual Caribbean Hall of Fame. This digital archive will celebrate Caribbean pioneers and icons across all disciplines—from political giants like Eric Williams and Norman Manley to cultural titans like Bob Marley and The Mighty Sparrow, and legendary athletes from across the Caribbean.

“The idea is to give our people, especially our youth, a space to reflect on and be inspired by the legacies of those who paved the way,” said Pursoo. “This history belongs to all of us.”

How to Attend and Support

Tickets for the Community Unity Breakfast can be purchased by contacting Eugene Pursoo directly at 516-359-0417 or visiting www.cduusa.org. For those who cannot attend in person, the event will be live-streamed, and the website offers options to support CDU’s programs and donate to the Disaster Fund.

Whether by attending, donating, or volunteering, the message is clear: this is more than a breakfast—it’s a movement.

A Call to Action

In closing, Pursoo issued a heartfelt invitation to the broader community: “Come break bread with us. Let’s listen to each other’s stories, enjoy our shared culture, and start building the future we want—together.”

Caribbean Diaspora United Inc. reminds us that our communities can survive and thrive with unity, preparation, and vision. For more information, visit www.cduusa.org or call 516-359-0417.