Articles
Exclusive cultural and political content highlighting issues affecting the Caribbean diaspora
The Question of the Essequibo
On December 3rd, Venezuela will hold a referendum to decide whether to formally claim Essequibo, a region long disputed with Guyana, as a Venezuelan state. Should they decide to move forward with the claim, Guyana would lose over 70% of its territory, much of which has been the source of the nation’s newfound wealth.
Happiness Is What We Believe In
SASOD Guyana and the Fight for Civil Rights
June is Pride Month! As the world takes to the streets to stand up for Black Lives, we cannot forget about the people within our communities who face additional struggles. I spoke with Joel Simpson, Founder and Managing Director of the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD), about the progress his organization has made over the last 17 years in Guyana and how quarantine may be helping the gay and trans community.
I Am A Guyanese
5 Reasons To Visit the Only English-Speaking Country in South America
27 years is a long time. I hadn't been back to my parents' home country since I was a child. As I stepped off the plane at Cheddi Jagan International airport and felt the rush of humid air suddenly dampening my skin, I realized this was a foreign land. However, after only seven days, I found 5 reasons I will be making more trips to Guyana.
It's Carnival. Look Bacchanal
Brooklyn's J'Ouvert and Labor Day Parade
It's been one week since Labor Day. A day where West Indians celebrate the culture and pageantry of the Caribbean with festivities throughout the long weekend culminating in a parade along Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn. However, this day was full of disappointments and tragedy. The predawn j'ouvert street party was once again marred by violence and the annual parade was a lackluster crawl.
True Masqueraders
Toronto Caribbean Carnival (Caribana)
I have been to Toronto many times for many reasons, but my favorite reason for venturing to T-Dot is Toronto's Caribbean Carnival (better known as Caribana). This year, I resolved to not only sit on the sidelines and watch the parade from behind a giant fence, but to don the revealing costume and play mas.
I Find Mehself in A Jouvay Band
Boston Carnival
The last time I attempted to experience the Carnival, Hurricane Irene blew through the east coast and forced me to return to New York prior to the parade. I took that as a sign. Two years later, I made a second attempt. Luckily, the air was cool and sunny skies blanketed the massive festival that began at 5am with j’ouvert and ended some twelve hours later. Fine. I am converted. Boston Carnival, ah comin’ again!