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Waraka Séwinal Festival Committee

The Waraka Séwinal Festival Committee is a cultural organization based in Atkinson, a village steeped in traditional heritage in Dominica’s northeast. The committee is the driving force behind the Waraka Séwinal Festival. This annual celebration preserves and promotes the island’s unique tradition of séwinal, a musical and communal activity with historical roots.

Mission and Objectives

The Waraka Séwinal Festival Committee was established to revitalize and maintain the séwinal tradition, which has faced challenges such as the decline of traditional instruments, economic difficulties, and a diminishing pool of skilled musicians. The committee works tirelessly to ensure this heritage remains alive for future generations by organizing events, supporting local musicians, and raising awareness of the cultural importance of séwinal.

The Waraka Séwinal Festival

The annual Waraka Séwinal Festival is the highlight of the committee’s efforts. Held in Atkinson during the Christmas season, this grand event features:

  • Séwinal Performances: Traditional bands like Bann Akayo serenade audiences with songs in Creole and English, backed by jing ping instruments such as the accordion, cyak, drum, and boom-boom.
  • Cultural Exhibitions: Displays of traditional crafts, dances, and Creole cuisine celebrate the broader cultural heritage of Atkinson and the surrounding Kalinago Territory.
  • Community Participation: The festival includes performances by bands from neighbouring communities, showcasing regional variations of séwinal.
  • Miss Noel Pageant: A unique festival feature, where contestants display their talents and embody the Christmas spirit.

Challenges and Preservation

The committee has faced several challenges in its mission, including funding constraints, the aftermath of natural disasters like Tropical Storm Erika, and the migration of young people to urban areas. However, through collaboration with local organizations such as the Atkinson Village Council, and by engaging sponsors, the Waraka Séwinal Festival Committee has been able to sustain its activities.

Broader Cultural Impact

Beyond organizing the festival, the committee plays an integral role in cultural preservation. It provides a platform for young musicians to learn and perform with traditional instruments, ensuring that the skills and knowledge are passed on. The festival has also become a tourist attraction, drawing visitors to Atkinson and contributing to the local economy.

Future Goals

Looking ahead, the Waraka Séwinal Festival Committee aims to expand its reach by partnering with educational institutions to integrate séwinal traditions into school curricula. It also plans to document and archive séwinal songs and practices, ensuring that this vibrant piece of Dominican culture is never lost.