An opportunity to experience ceremonies directly linked to our indigenous ancestors, and to learn about their traditions, tools and way of life, was showcased on Tuesday when the First Peoples of Trinidad and Tobago hosted an opening ceremony and commemorative exhibition at the National Archives in Port of Spain.
At Tuesday’s opening ceremony, Head of the First Peoples Sovereign Nations of Trinidad and Tobago, Chief Eric Lewis, underscored the event’s significance, stressing the importance of preserving and celebrating the heritage of the nation’s indigenous ancestors.
“I know my purpose at this time is to be the chief of the First Peoples to work as hard as I can to fulfill the legacies of our ancestors through education, song, dance, language, display. This is what I can do, this is what I can offer to the indigenous community and for the country: my heritage and my culture. But not just mine alone, that of our family members, that of our friend, that of the other communities, we can share that with you.”
Trinidad and Tobago was once home to a vibrant indigenous population, deeply affected by centuries of colonial rule. Though their numbers have dwindled, the resilient spirit of the First Peoples endures.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, Erica Jogue-Fortune, emphasised the value of preserving indigenous histories through cultural events and exhibitions that encourage the sharing of knowledge across generations.
“The celebration of Heritage Week, with its parades and community gatherings, is more than a cultural observance, it is a call to remember, to respect and to learn. It invites us all, regardless of background, to honour those who walked this earth before us and to deepen our understanding of First Peoples’ contribution to society.”
Government Archivist at the National Archives of Trinidad and Tobago, Avalon Dugan, urged citizens to take an active role in shaping the nation’s history. She said she has seen too many instances where foreigners visit the archives, use the country’s records, and end up writing Trinidad and Tobago’s history.
“I am throwing it out here, especially for the younger ones: come and use the archives, come and search through the records and write our history for us. Don’t leave it in the hands of outsiders. We are diligent and bright people, and we are more than able to do this.”
This exhibition was made possible through the diligent and ongoing work of the representatives from the First Peoples of Trinidad and Tobago, the National Archives, and the National Library and Information System Authority (NALIS), among other stakeholders.