Our Island Culture

“Our Island Culture” by Dr. Lennox Honychurch is foundational in Caribbean cultural studies. It offers a rich, readable exploration of how identity and heritage are formed in small island states. Through his deep knowledge of Caribbean history and anthropology, Dr. Lennox Honychurch traces the roots of artistic expression, from Indigenous and African traditions to colonial influence and contemporary Caribbean life.

Celebrating a Unique Caribbean Identity

The book provides an insightful overview of cultural evolution across the region, with a strong emphasis on the island’s own journey. Honychurch examines traditional dances, music, festivals, architecture, and storytelling to show how island societies shaped their identity. It draws upon the same historical themes found in; The Dominica Story: A History of the Island, Resistance, Refuge, Revival: The Indigenous Kalinagos of Dominica, and In the Forests of Freedom: The Fighting Maroons of Dominica.

Our Island Culture delves into living traditions such as Creole Heritage Month, Jounen Kwéyòl, and the use of Wòb Dwiyèt. These practices represent not only survival but a celebration of inherited values passed down through oral histories, music like Jing Ping, and dances such as Tambour Bèlè. Sites like Old Market Square, Bois Cotlette Plantation, and Carib/Kalinago Territory serve as living reminders of a shared past.

Culture in Community and Policy

Honychurch also explores how institutions such as the Division of Culture and the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development work to preserve and promote cultural expression. He notes the role of the National Youth Theatre, Community Day of Service, and the Dominica National Cultural Gala in keeping traditions alive, especially for younger generations.

Landscapes that Shape Culture

The island’s geography plays a vital role in this story. Honychurch connects the rugged terrain and isolated villages with the preservation of Indigenous and African practices. From Jacko Falls to Valley of Desolation and through cultural spots like the Old Carib Trace, the landscape becomes a silent but powerful force in shaping cultural identity.

Legacy and Educational Impact

Used in schools and referenced in academic circles, Our Island Culture remains a cornerstone in cultural education. Its influence is evident in heritage-focused initiatives by groups like the Society for Heritage Architectural Preservation and Enhancement (SHAPE), reinforcing the importance of remembering, recording, and respecting cultural heritage.