Kalinago Council strengthens regional ties during St. Kitts visit

Kalinago Chief Annette Sanford and members of the Kalinago Council recently travelled to St. Kitts for a visit described as a deeply meaningful opportunity to honor Kalinago history, strengthen regional partnerships and advance discussions on recognition and reparative justice. 

During the visit, Chief Sanford, along with Councillors Miranda and Renny Auguiste, joined St. Kitts and Nevis Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Marine Resources, Entrepreneurship, Cooperatives and Creative Economy, Hon. Samal Duggins, for the lighting of the Twin Torch of Remembrance. The ceremony served as a powerful symbol of St. Kitts and Nevis’ commitment to remembering and honoring the Kalinago people and their history. 

According to a Social Media Post from Chief Sanford, Minister Duggins also pledged St. Kitts & Nevis’ continued support & assistance to the Kalinago people as they pursue greater recognition, reconciliation & reparative justice.Sanford said the engagement helped transform historical lessons into meaningful action by strengthening partnerships, creating opportunities and deepening relations between the Kalinago Council & Caribbean governments. 

A significant part of the visit also involved a historical journey to a canyon where hundreds of Kalinago ancestors were reportedly massacred while they slept, including Chief Tegremond. The Council described the visit as an emotional and deeply moving experience that underscored the importance of preserving and remembering the history of the Kalinago people. 

She added that the Twin Torch of Remembrance should continue to represent truth, healing, solidarity & hope as the Kalinago people & their regional partners work toward a future grounded in recognition & reconciliation.