Copyright thevoiceslu
Jounen Kwéyòl is meant to mark a special occasion on the cultural calendar of events of St. Lucia and was designed to celebrate our rich French heritage but what does it represent to a population that is increasingly losing interest in what is innately authentically St. Lucian? Our displays of cultural expression these days are so poorly attended that one can be fooled into thinking that it was catering to only a select few. We have many examples that we can draw from. The recent La Rose and La Magawit Festivals, which we have previously addressed, are prime examples. But what really causes the dwindling participation in the things that are cornerstones of the island’s cultural identity. It has been said that it is partly due to the lack of or inadequate effort put into the publicizing of those events. If we take into consideration that marketing is believed to be a precise science, then we may be on our way to believing that there is some truth to this line of thinking. Some believe that it is due to the pressures of a changing world and the lack of adequate interest and involvement from respective governments or a combination of all of the above. Whatever the cause, the fact remains that participation is down in so far as our local cultural events are concerned. This weekend we celebrate Jounen Kwéyòl as part of Mwa Ewitaj Kwéyòl 2025 {Kweyol Heritage Month 2025}. The two communities designated to officially host celebrations are Babonneau in the north and Belle Vue in the south. Oh, and by the way, did we know that there were some 20 events scheduled between Babonneau and Belle Vue, coupled with a few other fringe events during October? In times gone there were multiple communities around the island hosting the annual Kwéyòl celebrations which to many fostered an exciting nationwide buzz. Was that discontinued because of the obvious traffic congestion it caused at times or because of the decreased foot traffic? There have also been reports of many small celebrations in various communities across the country which is not at all unusual and probably necessary as some community residents may not have the means to attend elsewhere. On another note, during Kwéyòl Heritage month we would have seen a massive Christmas display go up on the front lawn of the Courts Marisule branch. A huge marketing effort for what is important, at least to the bottom line. Let that sink in for a bit. That said, many business houses did do their bit internally to join in on the action. Most St Lucians support the idea of the celebration of Kwéyòl Heritage Month and Jounen Kwéyòl however there are others who are vehemently opposed to it as it is believed to be, like our other festivals, a reminder and a celebration of our colonial masters. One of the most notable positives at this time of the year is the display of cultural support through dress, particularly with the ladies. Their ability to bring the madras to life is unparallel fashion brilliance. In the final analysis, whatever Jounen Kwéyòl and Kwéyòl Heritage Month is becoming is largely dependent on how we view its existence and its importance. Bon Fet Kwéyòl!
