Editor’s note: This essay, written by Gabriel Christian, was first published in 2008 as a Dominica Academy of Arts and Sciences (DAAS) article. Six years later, it remains very relevant and Dominica News Online (DNO) has decided to publish it in seven parts over the next week.
2008 represents the 30 Anniversary of Dominica’s Independence from Britain. Many of us who championed the independence struggle can only grimace when we consider the mistakes made by our leaders and people over the years in failing to seize the opportunities presented to champion the national interest and control of the means of production for the benefit of the vast majority of Dominica’s people. The deterioration of any adherence to nationalist principles in philosophy and practice – by the government and governed – gives pause to the committed and confounds the best intentions of those who remain true to the cause. Today, we see scant commitment to indigenous control of our affairs; beyond feting and slogans which pretend to favor same. Recent events have compelled this reflection on our history as a people and, in particular, the role of the Dominica Labour Party which ushered in the era independence and considered itself the guardian of the national interest.
Today many people take for granted our right to vote; laws which protect women; equal rights for descendants of Africans or our Carib people; ownership of land or a home; respect for our creole culture; respect for our African heritage; our flag; our national anthem; our national independence, and the fact that Dominicans can sit in parliament and make decisions about local matters. It was not always so. It is only within the last half a century, 1951 to be exact, that Dominicans got the right to vote. That new policy was called universal adult suffrage. Prior, the right to vote was restricted to the propertied classes; overwhelmingly the descendants of those who had conquered the island, seized the land from the Caribs and then compelled captured Africans to work for free over a term of some 300 years. In the early to mid 19 Century, there were a few of our common people –Robert Douglas and J.B. Charles among them–who had accumulated property by dint of wise investment effort and thrift; but they were a minority. Others who had gained stature through education, such as distinguished local attorney Cecile Rawle whose bust sits atop a plinth at the top of Federation Drive, became notable leaders in the early fight for self government.
Dominica’s first Chief Minister, Franklin Baron, presided over an administration which brought some progress in the manner that local
representation should: there was the completion of the Imperial Road linking Marigot to Roseau in 1956; the start of the Melville Hall Airport project in 1958 and the new Dominica Grammar School building was conceived in 1960—among other projects. However, the island’s first political party, the Dominica Labour Party (DLP) formed by E.C. Loblack and Phyllis Shand Allfrey in 1956, arose because they felt that enough was not being done to serve the majority population. That majority population was overwhelmingly peasant and working class; still restricted in ownership of land, access to proper health care, and education. Further, because slavery had limited the ability of the descendants of poor Dominicans to acquire land, there was little trans-generational transfer of wealth. That meant if their parents were squatters, and labourers, so too were their children. Many Dominicans, groaning under the weight of that oppressive colonial system were forced to flee to other countries, to escape perpetual poverty: Curacao, Aruba, Cuba, U.S. Virgin Islands, Britain or the U.S.A. being among some of their destinations. Of those who remained, some decided to fight for change, and found a place in the Dominica Labour Party.
Some of the founders of the DLP had been members of Dominica’s first trade union, The Dominica Trade Union (DTU) which was formed in 1945. Having such a base, they believed in the working people having a living wage; and peasants being able to own the land upon which they worked. Most importantly the party believed in self government for Dominica; i.e. independence. In 1961 Edward Oliver LeBlanc led the DLP to a sweeping victory over the Dominica United Party (DUPP) led by Baron. LeBlanc’s administration laid the basis for many of the progressive changes we see today: new high schools such as the Portsmouth Secondary School; the Clifton Dupigny Technical College—now the site of the Dominica State College; feeder roads connecting mostly all villages; better primary schools; more high school scholarships and a new Dominica Grammar School and Technical Wing; social security; our own National Commercial & Development Bank; the new Ministry building; the Deep Water Harbour project; and the many housing schemes which came later. An exponent of literacy he promoted legislation which in the words of former Commissioner of Police, O.N. Phillip “… LeBlanc made it mandatory for children to attend primary school.” A truancy officer by the name of “Frank” scoured Roseau streets during the 1960s and early 1970s and would take into custody any child found out on the streets during school hours. In 1967, LeBlanc led the island to Associated Statehood with Britain. That meant that for the first time, Dominicans had control of local government, while Britain maintained control of defence and foreign affairs. A firm regionalist, LeBlanc hosted the hugely successful Expo 1969 Trade Fair at which each of the Windward Islands (Grenada, St. Vincent, St. Lucia and Dominica) displayed their agricultural and industrial products at the Botanic Gardens; Grenada’s exhibit – a 30 foot tall Nutmeg House with winding staircases and infused with the fragrance of that spice – was the most memorable display.
LeBlanc an avid exponent of Dominica’s history and creole culture, also commissioned three magazines from 1965 to 1970 called Dies Dominica and another work on the island’s past called Aspects of Dominican History . During the period of LeBlanc’s rule – and for some time thereafter – every National Day would conclude with a culture concert day at a huge circular stage erected on the cricket field at the Botanic Gardens. On stage men would recite poetry in the French creole language and women would whirl around in the colorful national costume of the Wob Dwiyet to accompaniment of accordions, tambourines, shak-shak, lapeau cabwit (goat skin) drums and bamboo horns.
In 1974 Premier LeBlanc departed and made way for Patrick John. Premier John won a big victory over the the Dominica Freedom Party (DFP) in the elections of 1975; Labour gained 16 out of 21 seats in that election. The DFP, led by Eugenia Charles, failed to gain much traction. The DFP was weak in the countryside and most Dominicans considered it to be the party of Roseau merchants and big land owners. John promoted the “Buy Local” campaign, introduced new housing schemes at Bath Estate and River Estate and inaugurated the Canefield Airport and new Treasury Computer Center and National Commercial & Development Bank building. In 1978, Premier Patrick John would lead the island to independence.
Throughout its early history, therefore, the DLP had focused on Dominicans being masters of their own destiny: the essence of the
NATIONAL QUESTION. That meant promoting a policy of indigenous control of the means of production. Such a policy has made for the
progress of many countries in the post colonial era; Malaysia, Singapore, Venezuela, India, Cuba are all countries where control of local resources by local people, have ensured that the wealth produced does the greatest good for the greatest number. In each of those countries, the governments built alliances to broaden the national consensus and promoted self reliance; even while courting foreign private investment. While favoring investment, they always ensured that the state or locals had a major role to play. By favoring the growth of a local business and ownership class, they have spurred local enterprise, science and compatible technology, and so built up the self confidence of their people. Today Singapore has some of the largest foreign exchange reserves; Cuba is a medical and education power which has shared its bounty with us; and India is a science power which has enhanced its food security through a “Green Revolution.” The Venezuelan government has-for years -used its oil wealth to fund indigenous industry; even more so now under President Chavez. Prime Minister Skerrit follows in that path, where he has reached out to sectors in opposition to the DLP, promoted the Dominica State College, and made land available to the landless. However, his actions have not been consistent and there have been mounting complaints and concerns with regard to ethics in office and adherence to the founding principles which gave birth to the Labour Party. These concerns, over years, have been shared internally with the Prime Minister and his cabinet by many who wish success for the party and country; two elements which are inextricably linked, as there can be no success for the Labour Party if the country and/or its noble principles are in ruin. It cannot be restated enough that the legendary leaders of the party, such as Phyllis Shand Allfrey, E.C. Loblack, E.O. Leblanc, H.L. Christian, and others were above reproach in their personal conduct and their adherence to the philosophy of Dominican nationalism and social justice.
A Brief Post Independence History of Dominica in early 1978 Patrick John dismissed two dynamic ministers Mike Douglas and Ferdinand Parillon, claiming they were communists and part of a plot to unseat him. Earlier, Douglas, alongside his brother Rosie Douglas who led the Popular Independence Committees (PIC) had been one of the most vocal advocates of political independence. In that period Patrick John had energized some young people, especially in Grandbay, Portsmouth and sections of Roseau by his support for self reliance, a buy local campaign and socialism. However, in the immediate pre-independence months he had moved away from those positions and had become distant. He was increasingly cut-off from any serious connection to the masses and had surrounded himself with a small clique of advisors; inattentive to the dissatisfaction building against his authoritarian manner…………………………to be continued.
Like every organization, the DAAS has its challenges. What is special about the DAAS is that it deals with its issues openly and effectively.
Many choose not to educate themselves regarding the massive contributions of the DAAS to Dominicans at home and abroad. DAAS has been the main vehicle, in concert with partner Dominican organizations for keeping our citizens overseas engaged in national development wherever they are. The Botanical Gardens website is just one such success. http://da-academy.org/dagardens.html
DAAS is an idea that can never die. It will continue to work patiently to inspire Dominicans that together we can do better. All nations must have an intellectuals. They don’t always have to be popular, but they always have to raise consciousness and push the people to think.
Good work Gaibu! We need the insight you guys have to offer. And I know you will continue to give it us even you though you have to drag us upwards kicking and screaming.
I would like to see DAAS deal with landgate and transfergate openly and effectively. I’m still waiting.
Of course, any article written by Gabriel Christian is worthwhile reading but this one is historically challenged. We might choose not to quibble about the fact that Dominicans were enslaved for 300 years but the younger citizens have a right to know that slavery was abolished in 1834 which by induction would have slavery established in Dominica in 1534. That is not the case. There is a void WW from ur calculations which you need to fill us on what trnspitrd between then and 1962 slavery wasn’t it? when did Europebegin to take interest in production of sugar cane tobacco etc in the new world including DA
The Labour Party was established by E C Loblack and Phyllis Shand Alfrey in 1955 not 1956. Both Alfrey and E O Leblanc were elected to the Federal Government of the West Indies Federation in 1958. E O Leblanc subsequently resigned and returned to Dominica to lead the Labour Party. Upon dissolution of the federation in 1962, Alfrey returned to Dominica intending to resume control of the party and was kicked out by E O Leblanc.
Was slavery only occurred after the 19th century then ? Ur imput is required sir.
Seems u were around in the time of Columbus lol! In that case ur version of history would be authentic as the authentic DLP not the jumpship or the stone jumping politicians & lawyers in our society who shift with the political winds. their sterns are rather flexible an adoptive to the political economics, Am sure you now them well
The history of the Labour Party is lengthy and universal in scope and not restricted to the narrow perceptions of those who are incapable of separating their hatred for the leader from the driven intent of the Party. The Party’s mission endures good leadership, poor leadership, great leadership as the people demand.
U forgot transposed leadergoat lol!
Even when ectopic creatures in vade the DLP Mr E Henry’s relative?
warring are u on the medical or recreational thing too?
Just wondering with ur craziness about the DLP ‘s mission. UWP DFP Neo DLP have to be institutions of the past .DA needs radical change to ever move forward. We are too stipped in self interest.
Some peeps are into accolades, material things etc and then they die lol sick limping they still sick earthly things. The independence has clearly demonstrated it do I need say more or single them out? All of us two faD/cans are more than well aware.
Mr. Christian I would love to see a party formed after this election with guys like you Chispin Gregoire, Judge Andre, can run in VC against Medard, A real stalwart for Possee Rock Bruno 4 Marigot, The real Prevost 4 Roseau the Doc, maybe rope in Dr. Willy Parra as advisor if he thinks he up there in age look for a positive sister in Mahaut/massacre get Behanzi e St.Joe, sister or Bro fromRoseau South a positive sister in Laplane or a bro look for the unwaivering people of yesterday DLM & MND
that would ne a force. Non -BS-ers Some would shake and peepee their pants.
Roosevelt skerrit has been inconsistent in what way give a little bit more details. The mounting dissatisfaction were from those who did not get what they wanted from him including most of the members of DAAS, of which Mr. Christian was a key member. Today if we look at the history of DAAS it does not take a genius to figure out that DAAS was a very corrupt organization which lacks integrity and credibility.
Mr. Christian had so much conviction and a strong advocate about inhumanity, poverty , equal righties , justice and enslavement of people but now we don’t hear his voice.
He has sold out like the house slaves and worries only about his best interest…what we call an opportunist.
I will not take his brilliance or academic achievement from him because he worked hard for it. But outside of this he is only about self which he mascaraed under the cover of betterment and empowerment of people.
This is all good but now we need to hear your opinions Dno and Gabriel Christian about Landgate and moneygate. Your silence is deafening.
Winston Warringhton got it right!Why are the DAAS Executive members,past and present, silent on this piece!!
I strongly believe that Patrick John should be mention during our independence celebrations or at least during the speeches of the present Prime Minister. He took a bold step in attaining us our independence from britain in november 1978. While we are naming schools and roads after deserving Dominicans while they are alive I think its fitting to honour PJ while he is alive. Pj meant well for Dominica but he was surrounded by some bad eggs.
And now he says nothing.
Cuba is a failed communist state, of the USSR/Russia. With its people escaping to florida. I am sure mr gabriel is not and will not residein the education and medical power, communist paradise
I am looking forward to the re read of this article which in the most simplistic manner has opened the meaning of democracy and political governance of our country. We have lost this morality in politics and Dominica’s governance with the emergence of Skerrits Dominica Labour’s Party.
Our institutions have been raped and prostituted and vandalised by these visionless current day FAST FOOD POLITICIANS.
MY GOD….WE DO NEED A CHANGE
CHANGE IS A MUST………………….TERAM DOMINICA
This is a quagmire situation DA has found itself. Blame it on those who are studiated and mi-seducated. political governance of our country. We have lost this morality in politics and Dominica’s governance with the emergence of Skerrits Dominica Labour’s Party. As you rightly state this is an abomination to politics mainly to the fact that all these guys are by products of avert poverty despite being studiated-Paul-Keens Douglas.(The use of the word Studiated. } The opposition like wise. See who got for leader of the Party a replica of of the original leader. Is this progress in the Party of former DFP-ites? Businessmen& Women many who have failed miserably those help in communications today have exploited invested and still had to flee the state. what ej is this to have running ur communications. others who formed the Solid Team which went gaseous by 2000 were former communists cafeteria type, farmers, some unknown according to VOA1995,
persons who fell out with their former idol due to no increase in wage. DA you know better than I do the group and its composition.
Now if this is what is hoping to take DA out of where she has found herself heaven alone knows what’s gonna become of DA when the regime continues it reign. I think UWP in 1995 was a flup How did Skerrit become P.M Sarverin become President? Reggie became a minister and all these idiots who are holding office?
The sadest thing is the educated idioys on the Gov’t side who play the role of Gobbles for Skerrit these people hold law degrees and Phds. I heard the holder of the latter qualification on radio last week speaking on a topic (and like Timothy did 4 yrs ago)deviated to making the story about them. The pseudo PHD guy was defending a cause he had won in the courts. My question is why revisit the issue??? something’s fishy. Those of us who heard the Health Minsiter 4-5 yrs ago talking about trade turn the topic to his country house and what goes on there lossed any confidence any one would have imagined about him.AS you so rightly said VIEWS EXPRESSED:
Our institutions have been raped and prostituted and vandalized by these visionless current day FAST FOOD POLITICIANS. The last word is in its plural form I was assuming that explains it it is a collective noun,hence meaning Cabinet & opposition alike.
Thanks for convincing us that DA is well well screwed.
If Lowways are named after persons who demonstrate their true colours as President not raising a finger against the ills done on his watch what more are we not to expect? It is a foregone conclusion when someone had the nerve to ask why Curtis Mathew was not given or nominated for an award. Hey DA !I rest my case . The population is high on Mesehmawee not even Marijuana can do that to the brains of an entire population.
Happy 36th!
Mighty America has not strayed from the principles and values of its founding fathers. So often they remind themselves of Abraham Lincoln and Franklin Roosevelt and what they stood for and in this vein continue their legacy. Today, the state still leaves on. Go DLP go, continue down this rocky path and do not take heed.
Hey Noni!
Mighty Neo – DLP has not strayed from the new principles and values of its new transposed leader . So often they remind themselves of how he came to power and what and the way he lives and and what he stands for and in this vein continue their corruption legacy. Today, the state still leaves on. Go DLP go, continue down this rocky path and do not take heed.
NONI! No constitution no law Noni you know the rest.
Good stuff. eagerly looking forward to the next episode. In order to know where you are going you must know your history..
Of course, any article written by Gabriel Christian is worthwhile reading but this one is historically challenged. We might choose not to quibble about the fact that Dominicans were enslaved for 300 years but the younger citizens have a right to know that slavery was abolished in 1834 which by induction would have slavery established in Dominica in 1534. That is not the case.
The Labour Party was established by E C Loblack and Phyllis Shand Alfrey in 1955 not 1956. Both Alfrey and E O Leblanc were elected to the Federal Government of the West Indies Federation in 1958. E O Leblanc subsequently resigned and returned to Dominica to lead the Labour Party. Upon dissolution of the federation in 1962, Alfrey returned to Dominica intending to resume control of the party and was kicked out by E O Leblanc.
But one needs to clarify the issue of Independence. The so-called struggle is not what it is trumped up to be, Independence or the right to self-determination was a concession from Winston Churchill to Franklin Roosevelt in 1944 as a condition of America joining the allied forces to bring an end to World War 2. This was agreed to at the New Foundland meeting and became a fundamental clause in the Charter of the United Nations. This agreement to rid all members of the Allied Powers of any vestige of colonialism was reinforced by the desire to implement the Marshall Plan that was so vital to the reconstruction of England after the war. So widespread had been the destruction and so massive the plan that England was forced to open her doors to migrants from her colonies to shore up her inadequate work force and West Indians including Dominicans migrated in droves. With a depleted treasury, England could ill afford to maintain her withering Empire.
There are other inaccuracies in the article but the observation that current DLP leaders have not attempted to emulate the leaders of the past and have strayed from the core principles that define the Labour Party is truthful. But,, as a Labourite I do not vote for the man, I vote for the mission.
Isn’t it the man who determines the success of the mission or its failure?
Your write up is brilliant excluding the last sentence. It simply takes away the brightness in your words. Simply put the mission is totally based on the mind of the man or men leading the mission. Hence there is no way you will have the same result based on men who do not follow the paths of the men who set out the ideal and just mission paths in the first place. Christianity wants the whole world to worship the creator but do they pick up guns,knives and swords like some others do to get the world to worship him??? I would think same mission but different men/minds.
List the core principles of the founding fathers of the DLP, winston. What were those core principles?
One correction/inaccuracy WW .
” but the observation that current DLP leaders have not attempted to emulate the leaders of the past and have strayed from the core principles that define the Labour Party is truthful. But,, as a Labourite I do not vote for the man, I vote for the mission. current pseudo /NEO would be a better nomenclature.
But,, as a Labourite I do not vote for the man, I vote for the mission. thus keeping the man in power laughable WW should I add BUSH LMAO WW.
WBUSH afer 400 yrs almost the brain ought to be like Philadelphia cream cheese ,lol!
Winston Warrington you freaky guy you writing as Blast from the past then you answering Blast from the past as Winston Warrington. Are you confused or simply desperate.