Dominica’s Emancipation Celebrations Promise Cultural Immersion and Empowerment

The 2023 Emancipation celebrations, designed to enhance the understanding of our cultural origins and history, were recently launched at the Old Mill Cultural Centre by Hon. Gretta Roberts, Minister for Culture, Youth Sports, and Community Development. As part of the celebrations, a craft exhibition paying tribute to past craftsmen was inaugurated, showcasing the depth and richness of Dominican culture.

Events lined up include a series of activities acknowledging the contributions of the Kalinago territory, alongside Calypso Day, Panning Harmony concert, and a lecture series in collaboration with the University of West Indies Open Campus. Roberts emphasized these festivities as instrumental in shedding light on various aspects of Dominican culture, ranging from behaviors and foods to clothing, dances, music, and languages.

According to the Minister, these celebrations aim to inspire positive change, foster dialogue, and promote understanding among the public. She views these as opportunities for education and empowerment, enabling a wider audience to connect with the country’s cultural roots.

Finally, Roberts discussed the Golden Drum Awards, a prestigious recognition given to individuals for their significant contributions to arts and culture over 20 years. She reassured those awaiting recognition, stating that their time would inevitably come, reflecting the vast talent pool within the Dominican cultural landscape.

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