The Msgr. Patrick Anthony Folk Research Centre (FRC) is set to host a national public discussion on Kwéyòl as part of the festivities for International Creole Day, known as Jounen Kwéyòl Entannasyonnal. The event, titled “Fèt Lanng Kwéyòl,” will take place at the National Cultural Centre on Tuesday, October 28, beginning at 9:30 AM.
During the gathering, presentations will be delivered by prominent figures in the national Kwéyòl Movement, including Dame Pearlette Louisy and Msgr. Patrick Anthony. Additionally, a group of expert facilitators will conduct interactive sessions aimed at educating attendees on the principles of the Kwéyòl writing system.
The public conversation promises to be a rich cultural experience, featuring Creole music, a mini exhibition, and the availability of various resources related to the Kwéyòl language. Participants will also include representatives from Creole-speaking communities in Cayenne and Grenada, who will join the festivities in Saint Lucia.
This year”s celebrations are particularly meaningful as they honor three esteemed advocates for the Kwéyòl language who have passed away: Mrs. Armelle Mathurin, a founding member of the Mouvman Kwéyòl Sent Lisi from Mon Repos; Dr. Hazel Simmonds Mac Donald, a noted educator and researcher in Kwéyòl language acquisition; and Mr. Leonard Robinson, a multi-language specialist dedicated to promoting Kwéyòl in Saint Lucian schools.
A variety of organizations, including national agencies and private sector partners, have collaborated with the FRC to support this event. Notable partners include the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF), the Saint Lucia National Commission for UNESCO, the Laborie Credit Union, and Calabash Television.
International Creole Day was officially recognized by UNESCO in 1983 and has since been celebrated annually by Creole-speaking populations worldwide. In the Caribbean, various activities occur in nations such as Dominica, Saint Lucia, Martinique, Guadeloupe, Haiti, and Cayenne. This observance serves as a platform for discussions and advocacy regarding the cultural, economic, and political importance of Creole languages.
Saint Lucia”s Jounen Kwéyòl 2025 will be celebrated under the theme, “Kwéyòl Sé Fòs Nou.”
