Raymond Lawrence inducted into Caribbean Hall of Fame

Chief Cultural Officer, Raymond Lawrence

Dominica’s Chief Cultural Officer Raymond Lawrence has been inducted into the Caribbean Hall of Fame for Arts, Sports and Culture.

The award ceremony took place last Friday at the Pegasus Hotel in Jamaica.

Lawrence was unable to attend the induction ceremony but he says that he feels very humbled and honoured, at the same time. He said the award is not only for him but also for Dominica. He thanks the Almighty Father and thanks the organizing committee for selecting him for induction into its Caribbean Hall of Fame.

An announcement from the organizing committee – the Caribbean Development for the Arts, Sports and Culture Foundation based in Jamaica said that Lawrence was selected in the category of culture.

This year’s function was the 11th annual Caribbean Hall of Fame Awards for Excellence and was staged as part of Jamaica’s 50th anniversary of Independence.

This prestigious Caribbean Hall of Fame awards are made every year by the Foundation in recognition of notable contributions made by those who have achieved excellence in their field of endeavour.

The Foundation’s main aim is to recognize the development of arts, sports and culture in the Caribbean and to encourage the natural genius of Caribbean people to reach the highest level.

The Foundation says the awards are not influenced nor determined by factors of race, colour, religion, sex or political affiliation.

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58 Comments

  1. Anonymous
    December 1, 2012

    Congrats Raymond and well deserved. May the Good Lord continue to bless and keep you healthy and strong.

  2. T mama
    November 27, 2012

    Hey @ is Domfesta dead??…you get your research correct, because the persons who honoured him did their research, you want to put all blame on him, he is one peson, and has done a hell of alot…..HATS OFF TO YOU MR. LAWRENCE. God is on your side…and whoever you are go to the Old Mill and see for yourself…Blessings Raymond

  3. believer
    November 27, 2012

    Raymond…you have done yourself, your family and friends and indeed your native land, very proud.
    That you received such an honor is testament to
    your years of artistry, creativity and dedication to our performing arts and culture.

    So well deserved Raymond.

    May you continue to uplift and inspire others to contribute to our cultural activities.

  4. November 27, 2012

    @IS DOMFESTA DEAD ???

    I did not have to read too far into your comment to discover that you may not know who is a “Hall of Famer”,

    Well that person is one who worked hard and gave extremely good performances during their days of Work—pertaining to cultural entertainment and Sports for example.

    That person would also have to be retired from his work for some years before he can become inducted into the Hall of Fame–this induction is not for someone who is still working.

    I know all of this because I used to like Baseball and so I discovered that all the good players who are inducted in the Hall of Fame, receive that Honor after some years in their retirement stages–so it is for all the other sports, like hockey, basketball, and what others.

    Most of the time we need to know for sure what we are talking about–especially when we go into disagreement–otherwise we can make a fool of ourselves. Other times we mislead those who do not know better.

  5. Anonymous
    November 27, 2012

    It would be interesting to know why the learned gentle was unable to attend the induction ceremony. People don’t miss this kind of function. Mr Lawrence has been working hard at promoting culture. Well deserve recognition. CONGRATULATIONS!

  6. 95 north
    November 27, 2012

    HIT ME;; BIG R Congrats’well deserved,
    stay bless “sugsr ray”J/C super star cast”

  7. Anonymous
    November 27, 2012

    HIT ME!! BIG… R…i not a crook down in the book;WELL DESERVED; SUGAR RAY; congrats,again,n again

  8. IS DOMFESTA DEAD ???
    November 27, 2012

    People have to learn to respect the views of others. DNO is not biased and its a balanced non partisan democratic medium . For my part I dont think the he is deserving of such an award. I am of the view that DOMFESTA is almost dead. Waitikubuli is a seasonal entity. I cannot remember when last they toured overseas or when they put on a serious Theatrical performance Like theatre Pawol or STEVE Hyacinth….We all know that the CULTURAL GALA is no longer what it used to be. The crowds are getting smaller and the performances are sub standard. I just cannot put a finger on one accomplishment of this gentleMAN ( huh ). We only hear about the cultural division during Independence celebrations. What do they do at other periods of the year? While a lot more young persons are into creole wear at Independence times but nothing is being done to market such talents that exist. There is no direct linkage between the culture and the tourism sectors. When last did you hear that some CD or video or even a docunentary has been produced by the CULTURAL DIVISION? We are too Patrotic in our culture. WE HAVE TO BE MORE CREATIVE AND VISONARY in what we do. An ushering of new ideas is needed. Im not saying that he has not made some contribution but what is his legacy apart from forming the dance theater ? Do you know what has happened to the lapo kabwit festival ? Traditional masquerade is on a decline and also we are having some departure from the authentic original dancing styles ‘ because many of the groups include new features and hence we have a water down apprpoach under the watch of the cultural division. People like MA WALTERS, A TUTU, ORION AND Dominica’s Cultural Queen TEACHER ADI HENDERSON must be disappointed at this new approach. Traditional dancies are not being encouraged in our school system yet we are seeing the advent of other forms such as salsa etc. Every school schild must be taught the BELAIRE DANCE FORM. eBERY SCHOOL CHILD MUST BE TAUGHT TO DRUM AND SPEAK CREOLE AND COR COY etc. Is there any educational programme on the media organised by the cultural divion. I will be happy to see an Independent Report on the operations of the Cultural Division over the past 10 years. The findings mmmay be shocking!!!

    We must move away from the rhetoric and focus on the substance and make an objective assessment. I do believe that MR lawrence R is a good and highly respectable man.

    • GRAND BAY
      November 27, 2012

      The taste of this comment is poor, leaving much to be desired. The mention of Ma Tutu, Adi and Orian to bolster the position taken by this commentator is highly offensive to Grand Barians. We may have our ways, but we are not part and parcel of any attempts to insult, denigrate and take away what has been awarded to so deserving a soul as Raymond Lawrence. Congratulations, Raymond. Well deserved.

    • Anonymous
      November 27, 2012

      Your comment is rather distasteful as a Dominican. Jamaica who has a high traditional culture has seen the importance of recognizing one of our own during their 50th annivesary of Indepedndence. We should first say thank you to the people who have seen it fit to place Mr. Lawrence in the Caribbean Hall of Fame. I would like you to inform yourself of the important work that Mr. Lawrence has done for Dominica and the Region. Just want to remind you that he has been awarded a meditorious award during our independence celebration some time ago,and the Mayor’s Award from the City Council Award ceremony.He is the father of Waitikubuli Dance Theatre for 40yrs, where the group has travel the region to display our young Dominican talent, most recently to Guadeloupe during an emancipation of slavery celebration and in St.Lucia where they were well appreciated. Thumbs up to you Mr.Lawrence. SORRY ABOUT THE HATERS!!!

  9. November 27, 2012

    Mr. Lawrence has certainly worked to deserve this award. He is one of Dominica’s greatest cultural icons, and is indeed doing his part to preserve our culture. Congratulations to you sir. We are all proud of you! You are one to be emulated!

  10. DANZIGER
    November 27, 2012

    Ray, we are proud of u keep up the good work.

  11. Voice of Reason - F
    November 26, 2012

    In all the years I saw you [n action, one thing always stood out. You were the same person on and of your podium, as you were off-not pretentious, very honest, competitive, humble. If you want you want yhe youths of today to look up to a culturalaetist, then one has to look no further than Raymond Lawrence. Look up class act in a dictionary and you should find his photo. We have been lucky here in Dominica to have someone so outstanding professional athletes who are also outstanding as him, Raymond Lawrence. A standing ovation to you uncle, and to the wonderful Family and friends who blessed your life and turned a Human Being out into the world to be a shining Star/light.

  12. Jenny
    November 26, 2012

    Congrats Ray. Well deserved for a hard working guy. Keep doing good and you’ll keep getting your flowers whilst you are alive. God bless you.You are an example to others in your field of work.

  13. inquisitive
    November 26, 2012

    Congrats bro Ray,you r a true loyal individual no wander you still look like you are sixteen,.After 18 years of not being home i visited recently and saw you in Roseau,what a pleasure it was to see you looking the same as when i last saw you.May your blessings see you through .Just continue to make us proud Ray.We love you,you are truely a son of the soil.

  14. Me
    November 26, 2012

    Hit me Raymond!
    Congrats. Well deserved.

  15. CC
    November 26, 2012

    CONGRATULATIONS …..I am so proud of you. Hip Hip Hurray for Ray!!!! Well done my bro, my friend, my colleague.

  16. bond
    November 26, 2012

    that you very much ray for your hard work and outting us out there,enjoy.

  17. FOR BETTER
    November 26, 2012

    congratulations!

  18. Just saying
    November 26, 2012

    You Deserve it Raymond.

  19. Free Thinker
    November 26, 2012

    Congratulations Sir, well deserved. Keep up the good work!

  20. Peeping Tom
    November 26, 2012

    Hats off to you sir, and to all who helped u get there.

  21. PU pu
    November 26, 2012

    what a great dominican

  22. W . bernad
    November 26, 2012

    well done buddy

  23. ROSEAU VALLEY
    November 26, 2012

    This award is well deserved. Mr. Lawrence is a stalwart of cultural development in Dominica. These are the kind of people who genuinely deserve meritorious awards during our independence celebrations unlike those sell-out, spineless, gutless, cowardly and membership-less Trade Unionists (in name only) who care more about themselves and the interest of their political idols to the extent that they would be quick to accept 0 and 1% on behalf of their “voiceless” members.

    Well done Mr. Lawrence….You are a true cultural icon and deserving of an award that recognizes those who encourage the natural genius of Caribbean people to reach the highest (not just the next) level.

    Respectfully
    The original Roseau Valley

    • LLBEEE
      November 27, 2012

      I really think that Dr. Benjamin has a lot of work on his hands. Let me first congratulate RAY for this most deserving award. Its however regrettable that this now FLIP FLOPPING ( ROSEAU VALLEY ) ATTENTION SEEKER just doesnt know how to keep his jaws out of the realm of partisan politics. One day he appears to be a firm SKERRITITE the next day apppears to be submerged into a precipitious Valley attempting to bring life water to a COMATOSE UWP.

      Let me state for the records that the two trade unionist who recieved their Meritorious Service Awards did so deservedly. They have been champions of the working class for several decades and they must be applauded for their contribution to the labour movement. The illustrious trade unionist; the Father of The Nation hon E C Loblack must be proud of them all.
      So ROSEAU VALLEY you have been unmasked and continued attempts on your part to change your coats and islead and confuse the asses shall not work at all. Dominicans are not deceptive and the people know just who you are and what your motives are and time will tell.
      So well done RAY we do love you a lot. You are the pride and joy of all of Dominica.

  24. CHARMER
    November 26, 2012

    Well done Mr lawrence

  25. out of south city
    November 26, 2012

    Congratulations to you Mr. Lawrence. This is a well deserved award. Keep the Dominican culture strong and alive.

  26. God's child
    November 26, 2012

    congratulations Mr Lawrence. we are proud of you. You are a dedicated worker. keep it up!

  27. November 26, 2012

    I will always remember some of the beautiful performances–especially in dancing–which I witnessed, at the Fort Young Hotel, lead by Raymond Lawrence with his group.

    That was more than 40 years ago; I was glad to read that he was still in the go, when I discovered DNO, in the mid 2010.

    Congratulations to you, Raymond, you had it coming for you. And I am glad to read that you did not forget that without Heavenly Father, you do not make it there. I wish that our young talents, in dominica, would understand this truth, so they would let go and let God in their thoughts, words, and deed, for His glory and for their blessings.

    Nice going my man! To God be the glory–He can do great things through us, who are humble and maintain reverend fear in Him. Your works is an example, for through you, God has raised the name of our Dominica, one step higher. Amen!

  28. Way papaaa
    November 26, 2012

    :wow,,, proud of you Sir.. Well well done

  29. trute
    November 26, 2012

    Congrats! Much deserved!

  30. sexsamesex
    November 26, 2012

    Well done Ramo you deserve all your praises. Surely you are a highly respected, loving and kind gentleman. Our beloved Dominica needs more role models like you.
    You have made Dominica and our people proud.

    When is the grand celebrations

    Hillsborough Street should be named RAYMOND STREET

  31. bowdel
    November 26, 2012

    congrats lawrence hope you have good tim

  32. Melissa
    November 26, 2012

    Congratulations Uncle Ray!!!!! Well deserved

  33. kubuli dancer
    November 26, 2012

    congratulations uncle ray

  34. ATL
    November 26, 2012

    CONGRATULATIONS, Uncle Ray! You make us proud.

  35. Spooks
    November 26, 2012

    Great job, raymond has done alot for d/cA AND DESERVES THIS AWARD…

  36. Public Officer
    November 26, 2012

    Raymond, you have worked hard and you deserve this Award. Keep up the good work.

  37. diamond girl
    November 26, 2012

    yay! go lawrence!

  38. T mama
    November 26, 2012

    Wonderful…you are such a humble man and you have been awarded this “Hall Of Fame” award..Congratulations, you work very hard for your country and the preservation of our Culture…may God continue to bless and guide you….:)) :)) :))

  39. Mamizoo
    November 26, 2012

    You certainly deserve the award Mr Lawrence. You are a true patriot and cultural icon. We Dominicans must show our appreciation for the commitment that you have shown to culture. Bravo Bravo

  40. Mrs B
    November 26, 2012

    Congrats Mr Lawrence. This award is well deserved :wink:

  41. kel
    November 26, 2012

    I am not trying to discredit ray…….but there are people who made a greater cultural contribution to the development of dominica such as alwin bully,alex bruno,steve hyacinth and pearl ettienne.

    • Mango-Bab
      November 27, 2012

      So, Mr or Ma Kel. I fail to see what’s your point? You left people like me hanging. I have no idea what the citations were like, but the BIG RL has kept Kubuli Dance Company alive for 41 years! Thats one of the longest serving groups (in culture, arts, sports, music) on island now!! He has headed the Cultural Division for possibly 15+ years! A member of the National Cultural. He and Kubuli have produced at least 2 well-patronized Carnival bands; also produced a full-length play “Papa Toussaint”. Raymond, comments like those coming from this Kel can only make you stronger. So, take a bow.

    • watch dog
      November 27, 2012

      again here we are. if u nothing good to say go throw some stones in the sea and continue to be a loser. Every one has his or her days. Just say thank you and move on>

    • DominicaninDominica
      November 27, 2012

      If u are making such a statement then it is apparent that u do not live in DA. Whilst it is true that the persons u have mentioned have made a contribution to our culture none have done so like Mr. Lawrence.

    • Anonymous
      November 27, 2012

      You are a retard!!

  42. waitukubuli-original
    November 26, 2012

    LOL- Caribbean hall of fame? The USA has really set the standards for you guys! weh sah!

    • watch dog
      November 27, 2012

      loser

    • Anonymous
      November 27, 2012

      Another expatriate retard making a retarded comment!!

    • Ayhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
      November 27, 2012

      can you for once just compliment someone for their achievement? Why are you so negative?

  43. Reader
    November 26, 2012

    Congratulations Raymond. Awards such as this make all the hard work and dedication worth it. And it also helps to compensate for those snide remarks that negative people in Dominica make about anyone who is trying to contribute. Keep your head high and carry on. We are indepted to you.

  44. funnyface
    November 26, 2012

    Well deserved!

  45. law and Order
    November 26, 2012

    Well deserved.

  46. November 26, 2012

    Congratulations sir, well deserved.

  47. Maz
    November 26, 2012

    Well done and congratulations Mr. Lawrence. Indeed you have made Dominica proud over the years.

  48. oo
    November 26, 2012

    Congratulations Ray on your achievement

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