Dominicans asked to embrace and preserve rich history [photo gallery included]

Dominica’s Culture Minister Justina Charles has called on the nation to embrace their history.

“As we know emancipation links us to our rich history. The African slaves were brought here under inhumane conditions but those who survived were able to bring their rich culture to Dominica and today we enjoy many of the richness that they brought us,” Charles told the official opening of the 2010 Emancipation Celebration at the Old Mill Cultural Center last night.

She believes emancipation has also helped preserve Dominican traditions.

“Government is committed to the development of culture in Dominica. We will continue to give support to art and culture because we realize that it develops the talents of our people,” she added.

[See photo gallery below. Photographer Larry Larocque]

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Meantime Chief Cultural Officer Raymond Lawrence says it is important from time to time as a nation that we reflect on the history and development of the country.

“It’s also important that we recognize the contribution of our forefathers to the development of Dominica and the Caribbean. Their role in the building on infrastructure such as our historic thoughts, mills and plantations can be seen everyday,” he noted.

Lawrence says in other for culture to thrive, the necessary facilities and infrastructure needs to be put in place.

Following the ceremony, there was a poetry segment which featured local poets, there were musical performances by Gregory Rabess and two cultural groups from WoodFord Hill and Paix Bouche. Persons also got the opportunity to view exhibits of local craft makers and amazing artwork by local artist Earl Etienne.