The Kalinago Council has announced that it has taken measures which will help safeguard the integrity of the Kalinago culture.
Dominica: In an effort to protect and preserve the culture, land and well-being of the Kalinago community and territory, the Kalinago Council has proposed a new permit system for non-community members to regulate access and protect their cultural heritage.
The Kalinago Council has announced that it has taken measures which will help safeguard the integrity of the Kalinago culture. The Council has revealed that a permit system will be put in place to regulate visits and stays with the Kalinago territory.
This system will require individuals who don’t belong to the Kalinago community to acquire a permit from the Council before visiting the territory. The Council has shared that this initiative is part of the ongoing efforts to preserve the cultural heritage and ancestral lands of the Kalinago people, ensuring that all carried out activities are in alignment with the values, traditions and safety of the community.
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Moreover, the Kalinago Council emphasised that this step is not to be interpreted as an agenda to drive out outsiders. They explained that it is a broader effort to reinforce the rights and responsibilities of the Kalinago people as stewards of the land.
“This is not about exclusion—it is about protection, sovereignty, and sustainability. Our lands are sacred, and as we welcome respectful engagement, we must also ensure that our community’s well-being, security, and environment are not compromised,” stated a representative of the Council.
Upon the finalisation of the permit system, the Council will disclose specific rules which will provide guidelines for the entry process and the duration of stay. The permit system will also include a list of activities that will be permitted within the territory, as well as specific provisions to aid those carrying out research, education and projects that adhere to the Kalinago Act and uphold the people’s cultural values.