An exhibition featuring the heritage of the Kalinagos took center stage on Wednesday as several primary and secondary schools, along with members of the public, experienced the culture, cuisine and history of Dominica’s indigenous people.
Kalinago artifacts, pictures, iconic craft items, a Kalinago cook book and several native foods, such as the cassava prepared in different ways, formed part of the exhibition which is currently ongoing at the Old Mill Cultural Center.
The exhibition is expected to run for one week.
Cultural Officer Gregory Rabess told the media that the event is an attempt to portray the life of the Kalinago people.
“It is an attempt to recreate as much as possible life in the Kalinago Territory, represented in objects, pictures, materials, art work…,” he said.
He mentioned that it is especially exciting for some students from the Kalinago Territory as they can relate to some of the people in the old photographs at the exhibition.
He said, so far, the exhibition has been “alive and buzzing with excitement.”
“Students are very excited, they are getting to know different things,” he noted.”Some of the schools from the Kalinago Territory were recognizing some familiar faces, maybe their grandparents, or their parents and that was very good and exciting for them. It’s been wonderful so far, very wonderful.”
Rabess also pointed out that many of the wildlife, culture and names of places that are being enjoyed today have their roots in the Kalinago culture.
He further noted that events will hopefully inspire people to do more research into the history and heritage of the Kalinago people and mentioned that the ministry of culture is currently working on volume two of a Heritage magazine on the Kalinago people.
He said that magazine will be available to the public soon.
Meantime, cultural elder in the Kalinago Territory and Kalinago Cultural Officer, Prosper Pari,s said he expect events, such as the exhibition, will make the Kalinago people appreciate their history, culture and sense of identity which would in turn build their self-esteem.
The exhibition forms part of the History Week and the island’s celebration of independence.
It is being held under the theme: Kalinago Heritage.
i agreee,may the good lord continue to bless them.
The History of the Kalinagos, the indigenous people of Dominica, should be taught in all schools; Primary as well as Secondary. Their history is rich and should be appreciated by us all. They should also be appreciated and not shunned or be dispised. The Kalinago people should continue to pass that rich history unto the younger generations in the village and should not be ashamed of who they are.
Long Live the Kalinagos!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
we are blessed to have this proud race of people as part of our heritage may they go on to aspire to their dreams and goals with dignity.