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Dominica: UN expert recommends human rights approach for advancing climate resilience

Dominica

DOMINICA (ROSEAU) – Dominica’s efforts towards climate resilience have been remarkable, a UN expert said today, urging the Government and the international community to rely on the human rights approach to consolidate achievements, recognize local innovations and civil society’s contributions, and understand who was left behind from climate response and disaster recovery.

“Dominica has been able to secure a fast recovery after tropical storm Erika in 2015 and Hurricane Maria in 2017. These were catastrophic climate events,” Elisa Morgera, UN Special Rapporteur on climate change and human rights, said in a statement at end of her visit to Dominica, referring to loss of life, persistent mental health issues, destruction up to 90% of the housing stock and the loss of over 200% GDP.

“In the face of such dramatic human rights impacts of climate change to which Dominica does not contribute, high-emitting States should provide finance, as well as science and technology cooperation, to protect human rights, biodiversity and cultural heritage in proportion to their responsibility for the loss and damage experienced due to climate change in Dominica, without increasing its debt,” Morgera warned. 

“Dominica’s ambition to become the world’s first climate resilient nation has made significant strides since 2017,” she added, noting cross-sectoral efforts to protect the rights to adequate housing, food, water, health and education, thanks to major investment of the national budget and the spirit of Koudmen – community cooperation, generosity and service.

“Shifting from top-down delivery towards transformative and collaborative approaches can further advance climate resilience,” Morgera said, “through access to information, public participation in decision-making, and the prevention of discriminatory practices in the distribution of recovery and resilience resources.”

“Participatory approaches also contribute to paying more attention to the essential role of biodiversity and cultural heritage in climate resilience,” the Special Rapporteur added. “This is particularly timely because of the expected expansion of tourism and imminent launch of land and marine spatial planning processes in the Nature Island of the Caribbean.”

The visit illuminated how transforming Dominica into a global resilience centre should rely on valuing and protecting the knowledge, practices and human rights of the Kalinago People – the largest remaining Indigenous peoples in the Caribbean islands, who have been the guardians of Dominica’s nature and water sources for centuries.

Small-scale fishers and farmers, divers and other individuals and communities who live in close connection with nature are also making significant contributions to environmental and socio-cultural sustainability, as are young people and NGOs. “But they are not recognised as trusted partners by the Government and face criticism for suggesting alternatives or mitigation measures,” the expert learnt during the visit.

“Dominica must urgently develop comprehensive legislation, through participatory processes, to protect human rights as part of climate resilience, including the rights of environmental human rights defenders, to prevent further environmental and cultural losses and support sustainable prosperity,” the Special Rapporteur said. 

The visit also provided an opportunity to clarify the responsibilities of bilateral donors, International Financial Institutions and the UN System to prevent, and provide effective remedies for, human rights or environmental harm arising from climate resilience or development projects. The expert also urged these partners to provide direct funding to community-led and youth-led initiatives in Dominica.

The full report of the expert’s visit will be presented to the 62nd session of the UN Human Rights Council in July 2026.

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Caribbean Airlines Cargo CONTINUES Digital EXPANSION, with NEW cargo.one Partnership

Caribbean Airlines Cargo CONTINUES Digital EXPANSION, with NEW cargo.one Partnership

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO – Caribbean Airlines Cargo has announced its partnership with cargo.one, a leading platform for digital air cargo bookings, marking a significant achievement in the airlines digital transformation journey. 

This collaboration enables freight forwarders in North America to effortlessly discover, quote, book, and track Caribbean Airlines Cargo’s capacity online, around-the-clock.  

As of May 08, freight forwarders in the United States and Canada can now conveniently access available space for general cargo shipments from key hubs including Miami, New York, and Toronto to destinations such as Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.  

Through cargo.one’s innovative platform, Caribbean Airlines Cargo now brings its 23 destinations within seamless digital reach of thousands of forwarding branches worldwide. 

Marklan Moseley, General Manager – Cargo and New Business at Caribbean Airlines, described the partnership as a strategic move that aligns with the company’s vision for growth and modernization. “Bringing our capacity to cargo.one enables Caribbean Airlines Cargo to further globalize our sales footprint, and bring our services within convenient digital reach to many thousands more forwarding branches worldwide," Moseley expressed. He further stated, "It is a strategic move to partner with cargo.one as an expert that offers us a strong route to market, a wealth of digital sales experience, and best practices from which to benefit.” 

Moritz Claussen, Founder and Co-CEO of cargo.one, shared his enthusiasm for the new partnership, remarking “Freight forwarders can now make the very best use of Caribbean Airlines Cargo capacity, with truly seamless and convenient digital quoting and booking on cargo.one. We are delighted to support Caribbean Airlines Cargo to accelerate and diversify their digital sales growth, and share in their exciting digitalization journey.”

This partnership underscores Caribbean Airlines Cargo’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and customer-centric solutions in not only the regional but global air cargo market. 

Forwarders can begin booking today at https://www.cargo.one/bw

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‘Stop the 21st century atrocity’ in Gaza, Fletcher urges UN Security Council

UN News A Palestinian child in Gaza after receiving a meal during food distribution in central Gaza.
INTERNATIONAL, 13 May 2025 Humanitarian Aid - No aid has entered Gaza for more than 10 weeks and every single one of the 2.1 million people there faces famine conditions, the UN Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher said on Tuesday in a briefing to the Security Council in New York.
Mr. Fletcher began his remarks by asking the international community to reflect on what it will tell future generations about action taken “to stop the 21st century atrocity to which we bear daily witness in Gaza.”

He wondered, for example, if “we will use those empty words, ‘we did all we could,’” and urged the Council to act decisively to prevent genocide from happening.

Shrinking spaces, overwhelmed hospitals

In addition to the aid blockade, civilians in Gaza have again been forcibly displaced and confined into ever-shrinking spaces, he said, as 70 per cent of the territory is either within Israeli-militarized zones or under displacement orders. 

Furthermore, the few remaining hospitals are overwhelmed, and medics cannot stem the trauma and the spread of disease.

“I can tell you from having visited what’s left of Gaza’s medical system that death on this scale has a sound and a smell that does not leave you,” he said.

“As one hospital worker described it, ‘children scream as we peel burnt fabric from their skin.’”

We can save lives

Mr. Fletcher stressed that the UN and partners are desperate to resume humanitarian aid across Gaza, and the recent ceasefire showed that they can deliver.  Meanwhile, lifesaving supplies are waiting to enter the enclave.

“We can save hundreds of thousands of survivors. We have rigorous mechanisms to ensure our aid gets to civilians, and not to Hamas,” he insisted.

“But Israel denies us access, placing the objective of depopulating Gaza before the lives of civilians,” he said. 

“It is bad enough that the blockade continues.  How do you react when Israeli Ministers boast about it? Or when attacks on humanitarian workers and violations of the UN’s privileges and immunities continue, along with restrictions on international and non-governmental organizations.”

Reject ‘cynical’ US-Israeli aid alternative 

Mr. Fletcher recalled that Israel has clear obligations under international humanitarian law, and as the occupying power must agree to aid and facilitate it.  

“For anyone still pretending to be in any doubt, the Israeli-designed distribution modality is not the answer,” he stated, noting that among other things, the plan “makes starvation a bargaining chip.”

“It is cynical sideshow. A deliberate distraction. A fig leaf for further violence and displacement,” he told ambassadors.  “If any of that still matters, have no part in it.”

He also addressed the increasing violence in the West Bank, where the situation is the worst in decades, with entire communities destroyed and refugee camps depopulated. 

Insist on accountability

Mr. Fletcher noted that international humanitarian workers have been the only international civilian presence in Gaza over the past 19 months, and they have briefed the Council on what they witness daily.

“We have described the deliberate obstruction of aid operations and the systematic dismantling of Palestinian life, and that which sustains it, in Gaza,” he said.

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is now considering whether a genocide is taking place there and “will weigh the testimony we have shared. But it will be too late,” he warned.

He said the ICJ has recognized the urgency and indicated clear provisional measures that should have been acted on – but Israel has failed to do so. 

Moreover, previous reviews of the UN’s conduct in cases of large-scale violations of international human rights and humanitarian law have pointed to the collective failure to speak to the scale of violations while they were being committed.

“For those killed and those whose voices are silenced: what more evidence do you need now?” he asked.  “Will you act – decisively - to prevent genocide and to ensure respect for international humanitarian law? Or will you say instead, 'we did all we could?’”.

He told the Council that the degradation of international law is corrosive and infectious, and it is undermining decades of progress on civilian protection.

“Humanity, the law, and reason must prevail,” he said.  “This Council must prevail. Demand this ends. Stop arming it. Insist on accountability.”

Fear future judgement

Mr. Fletcher called for Israel to stop killing and injuring civilians, and to lift the brutal blockade so that humanitarians can save lives.

He urged Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups to release all hostages immediately and unconditionally, and to stop putting civilians at risk during military operations. 

“And for those who will not survive what we fear is coming - in plain sight - it will be no consolation to know that future generations will hold us in this chamber to account. But they will,” he said.   

“And, if we have not seriously done “all we could’, we should fear that judgement.” 

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Caribbean Airlines Affirms Accessibility of TT Dollar Payment Options

Caribbean Airlines Affirms Accessibility of TT Dollar Payment Options

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO – Caribbean Airlines has noted the sentiments expressed in an article “Time to let Trinbagonians book CAL flights in TT$” published in the Trinidad Express on May 11, 2025. 

The airline appreciates the ongoing discourse and welcomes the opportunity to clarify the options available to customers for booking and payment in Trinidad and Tobago dollars (TTD). 

Caribbean Airlines confirms that tickets can be purchased in TTD at all its ticket offices throughout Trinidad and Tobago. 

These locations are: 

  • The Caribbean Airlines Head Office in Piarco
  • The Piarco International Airport
  • Carlton Centre, San Fernando
  • Parkade, Port of Spain
  • ANR Robinson International Airport, Tobago
  • Travel Agent Offices in Trinidad and Tobago

Additionally, for travel between Trinidad and Tobago, customers can conveniently book and pay in TTD using the Caribbean Airlines free mobile app. 

Further, to support affordability and provide greater flexibility, the airline offers its Caribbean Layaway payment plan. This interest-free option allows customers to pay for their tickets in installments using TTD, making travel more accessible for those who may prefer a staggered payment arrangement. 

Caribbean Airlines is deeply rooted in the Caribbean and remains committed to serving the people of Trinidad and Tobago. However, it is important to note that around 70% of the airline’s operational and other expenses are payable in foreign currencies. These include (but are not limited to) core costs such as aircraft operating leases, taxes, handling, engine maintenance and fuel. 

This economic reality necessitates a balanced approach to ensure financial sustainability and operational viability.  As such, the company must carefully balance its pricing strategies with the financial realities of the aviation industry. 

Caribbean Airlines values the continued support of the people of Trinidad and Tobago and reiterates its commitment to transparency, customer service, and contributing to regional connectivity.

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Teri Helenese Urges Unified Caribbean Strategy to Boost Tourism Amid Global Economic Uncertainty

Teri Helenese

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Teri Helenese, the U.S. Virgin Islands’ Director of State-Federal Relations and Washington Representative, is calling on Caribbean nations to unite with urgency and purpose to grow the region’s global tourism market share, which has long remained under three percent despite a strong post-pandemic recovery.

Speaking against the backdrop of mounting global economic uncertainty, Helenese warned that continued growth cannot be taken for granted. “The U.S. Virgin Islands has outpaced pre-pandemic levels, and the wider Caribbean is seeing strong momentum, but we can’t afford to be complacent,” she said. “Now is the time to double down on strategic partnerships and regional cooperation.”

Helenese commended the USVI Department of Tourism for its engagement with organizations like the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), and the newly revitalized Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), noting that such alliances are critical to building a stronger, more coordinated Caribbean presence on the world stage.

Her remarks follow the release of the CTO’s “Caribbean Tourism Performance Review 2024”, which reported an estimated 34.2 million international tourist arrivals to the region – a 6.1 percent increase over 2023 and nearly seven percent above 2019 levels. The U.S. Virgin Islands was among top performers, recording a 41.8 percent growth in stayover visitors compared with pre-pandemic benchmark numbers.

“Global tourism is rebounding, but it’s uneven. Major markets like the U.S., China and Germany are slowing. If we want to stay ahead, the Caribbean must think and act collectively,” she said, referencing recent World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) data showing record travel spend globally but a divergence in recovery patterns.

She called for greater intra-Caribbean connectivity, improved infrastructure, and a unified branding approach that speaks to the region’s rich cultural diversity while promoting its shared strengths.

Echoing CTO Secretary-General Dona Regis-Prosper, Helenese said the Caribbean’s continued growth is a testament to the region’s resilience and collaboration — but its future will be shaped by the decisions leaders make today. “The global tourism pie is growing, and we deserve a bigger slice,” she said.

“But we’ll only get there by moving forward together and activating a bold, regional marketing strategy. In today’s digital era, we have the tools to make it happen,” she added. “A rising tide lifts all sails — a stronger U.S. Virgin Islands, a stronger St. Lucia, Barbados, and Jamaica, means a stronger Caribbean. When one of us wins, we all win — that’s the mindset we need as we navigate this period of global recalibration.” Source: Teri Helenese

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Martinique Showcases Unique Cruise Appeal and Growing Accessibility at Cruise360

(L-R) Roger Blum, Muriel Wiltord, Glenn Heilbron and Monique Macaire-Sprott at Cruise 360 in Fort Lauderdale

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – The Martinique Tourism Authority delivered a compelling case for the French Caribbean island’s expanding cruise market during a well-attended morning session at Cruise360, held at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center last month.

Led by a seasoned trio of tourism professionals, the presentation — themed “Sail Away to Martinique’s Hidden Treasures” — highlighted the island’s cultural richness, port diversity, and increasing accessibility by air and sea. The seminar was held in collaboration with American Airlines and targeted travel advisors and cruise industry stakeholders eager to tap into new and enriching Caribbean experiences for their clients.

Muriel Wiltord, Director of the Americas at the Martinique Tourism Authority (MTA), whose decades-long leadership has been pivotal in shaping the island’s North American outreach, underscored the strategic importance of airlift in growing Martinique’s homeport capabilities. Pointing to robust connections through Miami, she stated: “The accessibility of Martinique from the United States is facilitated by American Airlines, providing seamless travel options between Fort-de-France and Miami, with convenient connections at Miami International Airport.”

Monique Macaire-Sprott, MTA’s U.S. Manager for Marketing, Administration, Cruise & Water Sports, offered a detailed overview of Martinique’s visitor experience. She spotlighted the island’s UNESCO biosphere reserve designation, iconic sites like Mount Pelée, and Creole cultural traditions.

Macaire-Sprott emphasized Martinique’s wide array of accommodations — including a renovated Club Med, boutique hotels, luxury villas, eco lodges, and transparent “bubble” hotels — and spoke to the island’s investments in accessibility, including electric transport for mobility-impaired cruise passengers. “We make sure that if you have clients who have wheelchairs or who have problems walking, we have electric vehicles that will come at the gangway to meet with them if they need to,” she explained.

Cruise industry veteran Roger Blum, serving as Martinique’s cruise tourism consultant, focused on the island’s impressive maritime infrastructure. “For an island of its size, Martinique actually has eight unique cruise ports. Two of them (Pointe Simon and Les Tourelles in Fort-de-France) are where the biggest ships in the world can dock, and the other six of them are unique, different types of boutique anchorages that really cater to the smaller luxury and ultra-luxury ships.”

He guided attendees through Martinique’s range of port experiences, from the historic city of Saint-Pierre in the north to the yachting hub of Le Marin in the south, and shared insights on the growing number of luxury lines including The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Seabourn, Regent, Silversea, and Oceania that now include Martinique in their itineraries.

The presentation also featured Glenn Heilbron, Channel Sales Manager with American Airlines, who discussed the airline’s nonstop Miami–Fort-de-France service and its alignment with cruise itineraries. “Passengers can travel by air into the island and then take a cruise there and backwards also,” he noted, emphasizing seamless connectivity across U.S. gateways.

Attendees received curated destination materials and were invited to engage further with Martinique’s offerings on the trade show floor. The session ended with a call to action: embrace Martinique’s trade tools and specialist program to unlock a hidden gem on the Caribbean cruise map. Source: Martinique Tourism Authority

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CHTA NOTES STRONG INVESTOR CONFIDENCE, RESILIENCE AND INNOVATION AT ALIS CALA 2025

Cole Bay, Simpson Bay and the Simpson Bay Lagoon, Sint Maarten

MIAMI, Fla. – The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) shared powerful insights following its participation in the Americas Lodging Investment Summit Caribbean & Latin America (ALIS CALA), underscoring a cautiously optimistic outlook for tourism investment in the region, despite global headwinds and rising costs.

With more than 550 attendees representing 35 countries, ALIS CALA brought together investors, developers, government leaders, and hospitality executives for three days of dialogue, networking, and strategic planning. The summit kicked off with an ALIS CALA- and CHTA-led Investor Sentiment Poll—fielded among 89 participants— which revealed:

81 percent rated the current climate for tourism-related investment in CALA as "Good" or "Robust"

70 percent anticipate construction and renovation costs will increase by more than 10 percent over the next year

Luxury properties emerged as the most attractive investment segment, chosen by 45 percent of respondents

While funding is available, 82 percent noted it is more expensive than in previous years

In addition to this pulse survey, CHTA conducted a similar sentiment index amongst its members, the results of which closely mirrored the ALIS CALA survey. However, preliminary findings from CHTA’s Interim Economic Outlook Survey also suggest caution, with emerging signs of weakened short-term confidence.

“The Caribbean continues to prove itself as one of the most resilient tourism markets in the world,” shared CHTA President Sanovnik Destang. “While cost pressures and global uncertainty are real, investor appetite remains strong, and we are seeing bold new developments in sustainable, community-focused tourism across the region.”

Key Trends and Insights:

Resilience Amid Volatility: As destinations navigate high operating costs, supply chain disruptions, and inflation, the Caribbean’s tourism-dependent economies are adapting with increased airlift, targeted diversification strategies, and innovation in hospitality experiences—from wellness to branded residences and full-circle culinary programs.

Data-Driven Optimism: Hotel performance across much of the Caribbean is outpacing pre-pandemic levels, fueled by strong demand and travelers’ willingness to invest in meaningful experiences. Boutique, experiential, and eco-luxury offerings are seeing particularly high interest.

Broadening Market Reach: While the U.S. remains the primary source market, CHTA emphasizes the growing importance of Canada, Latin America, and intra-Caribbean travel. Calls to reduce taxes on regional flights and increase inter-island connectivity are gaining momentum; in fact, Saint Lucia and Barbados are leading by example, cutting taxes on regional airfare by 50% for the summer of 2025.

Community and Sustainability Focus: Developers are incorporating into partnerships that prioritize local impact—from hiring biologists to protect ecosystems, to including local chefs and artists in the guest experience. Investors are increasingly prioritizing destinations with strong sustainability narratives.

Technology and AI Transformation: The conference spotlighted AI as a hospitality equalizer—automating operations while freeing staff to enhance guest experiences. During a panel discussion, Destang also encouraged the upskilling of the Caribbean workforce to stay competitive in an AI-driven future.

A United Voice for the Region

CHTA reaffirmed its role as a regional advocate, citing its recent efforts that helped avert costly U.S. port fees and its ongoing collaboration with the CARICOM Private Sector Organization, regional shipping partners, and tourism stakeholders to reduce external dependencies and enhance trade routes.

Additionally, CHTA played a key role in a tax advocacy effort in the Dominican Republic, helping to preserve essential tourism-related incentives that were at risk due to proposed tax reforms—safeguarding continued investment and growth within one of the Caribbean’s most vital tourism markets.

“The Caribbean is not just a destination—it’s a brand,” said Destang. “But each island tells its own story. We must continue to amplify those narratives through smart investment, thoughtful development, and unified advocacy.”

As the region looks ahead into 2025 and beyond, CHTA will continue to support its 32 member destinations with insights, partnerships, and a relentless focus on resilience, innovation, and inclusive growth.

These critical conversations and collaborations will continue later this month in Antigua at the 2025 Caribbean Travel Forum and Caribbean Travel Marketplace, where CHTA will unveil further insights and strategies shaping the future of Caribbean tourism.

Registration is still available for each event at the following links: https://caribbeantravelforum.com and https://chtamarketplace.com. More detailed insights will be shared through the CHTA members portal in the coming weeks.

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Dominica and USVI Lead Growing List of Sponsors for Caribbean Week in New York 2025

Dominica and USVI Lead Growing List of Sponsors for Caribbean Week in New York 2025

NEW YORK – The Nature Island of Dominica and the U.S. Virgin Islands – Naturally in Rhythm – have been confirmed as title Platinum Sponsors of Caribbean Week in New York (CWNY 2025), the flagship event of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) in North America. Taking place from June 1-6, 2025, at The Westin New York at Times Square, CWNY continues to build momentum with strong support from a growing number of CTO member countries and tourism partners.

This year’s impressive lineup of sponsors also includes:

Gold Sponsors: Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Bermuda

Silver Sponsors: St. Kitts, Sandals Resorts International

Bronze Sponsor: Anguilla, Barbados

The expanding sponsorship base reflects a united regional commitment to amplify the Caribbean’s global presence and underscores the strategic importance of CWNY as a platform for tourism development, investment, and cultural diplomacy.

“Caribbean Week in New York is more than a celebration — it’s a strategic convergence of our region’s top minds and markets,” said Dona Regis-Prosper, Secretary-General and CEO of the CTO. “We’re encouraged by the growing support from our members and partners, which shows the value they see in this marquee event.”

Under the theme “Caribbean Resilience: Crafting Tomorrow’s Tourism,” the 2025 edition will spotlight the dynamism and diversity of the region through a series of high-impact events, including:

Sessions on Artificial Intelligence and Hospitality Innovation

The launch of the CTO Reimagine Plan

Media Marketplace and Caribbean Media Awards

Caribbean Women’s Leadership Dinner and Awards

Forums on airline and cruise connectivity

Sessions on the Orange Economy and creative industries

A next-generation showcase for Caribbean youth

An Allied Member session on emerging markets

The relaunch of CTO’s Hospitality Assured Program

The Caribbean Cultural Showcase, a consumer event celebrating the region’s music, art and flavors

Caribbean Week in New York remains the premier regional tourism event in the U.S., drawing government officials, travel professionals, media, diaspora leaders, and Caribbean enthusiasts together to shape the future of the industry.

For more information or to get involved, visit www.caribbeanweek.com. Source: Caribbean Tourism Organization

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Caribbean Week in New York 2025 to Feature First-Ever Caribbean Cultural Showcase

Caribbean Week in New York 2025 to Feature First-Ever Caribbean Cultural Showcase

NEW YORK — The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has added an exciting new event to the Caribbean Week in New York (CWNY) 2025 schedule: the Caribbean Cultural Showcase. Celebrating Caribbean music, dance, cuisine and artistry, the event will take place at The Westin New York at Times Square on Thursday, June 5, from 4 pm to 8 pm.

The Caribbean Cultural Showcase will provide attendees with an immersive experience of authentic Caribbean culture, featuring performances, culinary delights, and displays of island artistry. Visitors will have the opportunity to win trips to various Caribbean destinations and access exclusive travel deals available only during the event. To purchase tickets, go to Caribbean Cultural Showcase.

“We’re thrilled to introduce the Caribbean Cultural Showcase as part of our expanded Caribbean Week program,” said Dona Regis-Prosper, Secretary-General and CEO of the CTO. “This new addition reflects our commitment to sharing the rich cultural tapestry that makes our region so unique. Beyond our beaches and natural beauty, the Caribbean’s diverse heritage, expressed through our music, dance, art and cuisine, is a powerful tourism asset that resonates with travelers seeking authentic experiences.”

CWNY 2025’s theme, “Caribbean Resilience: Crafting Tomorrow’s Tourism,” aligns perfectly with the Caribbean Cultural Showcase – as the aim is to highlight the region’s cultural heritage as a cornerstone of sustainable tourism development. The event provides a platform for the Caribbean diaspora communities in New York to reconnect with their roots while introducing potential visitors to the rich experiences awaiting them across the region.

Caribbean Week in New York 2025 remains the premier Caribbean tourism event in North America, offering stakeholders unparalleled engagement opportunities with industry leaders, media representatives and travel enthusiasts. For more information, visit caribbeanweek.com. Source: Caribbean Tourism Organization

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13 Guadeloupean Students Visit Dominica to Deepen Understanding of Kalinago History and Culture

Students & Teachers from MFR de LAMENTIN

DOMINICA – Thirteen second-year high school students from Maison Familiale Rurale Education Orientation Lamentin (MFR Lamentin) in Guadeloupe have arrived in Dominica for a five-day educational exchange focused on the Kalinago people—Dominica’s Indigenous community. The initiative forms part of their Caribbean history curriculum and aims to foster deeper understanding and appreciation of the region’s rich and often overlooked Indigenous heritage.

This immersive experience, coordinated by Black Island Girl Multimedia, is designed to educate students on the Kalinago people’s contributions, traditions, and resilience, both past and present. By bringing students directly into contact with the Kalinago Territory, this program seeks to reshape the way Caribbean history is taught, centering authentic narratives and challenging historically inaccurate portrayals.

During their stay, students will engage with several cultural leaders including:

  • Anette Sanford, Dominica’s first female Kalinago Chief
  • Cozier Frederick, Minister for Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment, and Constituency Empowerment
  • Earlson Matthew, Chief Cultural Officer of Dominica

The itinerary also includes serval heritage sites and cultural experiences. They will participate in a traditional Kalinago naming ceremony, culinary experiences with locally made cassava and other traditional foods, and visits to historical and natural landmarks such as the Indian River, Fort Shirley, and Titou Gorge.

Educators from MFR Lamentin have extended a heartfelt invitation to members of the Kalinago community and cultural experts to meet with the visiting students. “We would be honoured if you could spare some time to engage with our students and share your perspectives on the significance of the Kalinago civilization in both historical and contemporary contexts,” said Mahailiah Mellow, teacher and development officer from the delegation. “Your expertise and leadership would greatly enrich the students' understanding and appreciation of this vibrant and enduring culture.”

This exchange not only represents a powerful educational moment but also contributes to the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote Kalinago heritage across the Caribbean.

Black Island Girl Multimedia is a media and communications company founded by Jael Joseph, a Dominican-Canadian journalist, media producer, and cultural storyteller. The company is dedicated to amplifying underrepresented Caribbean voices, reshaping narratives around Caribbean identity, and telling stories that center Black and Indigenous perspectives particularly those often excluded from mainstream historical accounts.

Black Island Girl Multimedia focuses on:

  • Documentary production and multimedia storytelling; “Territory”, a documentary on the Kalinago people won Best Short Doc in 2023 at The Caribbean Tales International Film Festival in Canada.
  • Cultural preservation through digital media, podcasting, and live events
  • Education and advocacy, especially around Caribbean history, heritage, and the experiences of women, migrants, and Indigenous peoples
  • Event partnerships that align with social justice, cultural upliftment, and regional empowerment

The name "Black Island Girl" is both a declaration of identity and a mission: to represent the richness, resilience, and reality of Caribbean life through creative media rooted in truth and lived experience.

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