By Keith Bernard
News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. Aug. 20, 2024: The decision to remove the depictions of Christopher Columbus’ ships from Trinidad and Tobago’s Coat of Arms after 62 years marks a critical moment in the nation’s journey toward decolonization and cultural self-definition. Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley’s announcement reflects an acknowledgment of the complex and painful legacy of Columbus and the European colonization that followed. While the removal of these symbols is a step toward confronting history, it also raises questions about what will take their place on the Coat of Arms—and whether any single symbol can truly capture the spirit of Trinidad and Tobago.
Columbus’ arrival in 1498, once celebrated as a moment of “discovery,” is now rightly understood as the beginning of centuries of exploitation, enslavement, and cultural destruction. The Nina, the Pinta, and the Santa Maria, long heralded as icons of exploration, also represent the start of a dark chapter in Caribbean history. By removing these ships, Trinidad and Tobago is choosing to confront this past and honor the resilience and survival of its people.
However, as the nation looks to replace these symbols, it is essential to consider the depth and diversity of Trinidad and Tobago’s identity. The steel pan, for instance, is often celebrated as the quintessential symbol of Trinidadian culture. Born from ingenuity and resilience, it represents a unique fusion of African and Caribbean traditions, and it has earned global recognition. But while the steel pan is a powerful emblem, it alone cannot encapsulate the multifaceted identity of a nation that is home to people of African, Indian, indigenous, and European descent.
The challenge now is to craft a new symbol—or set of symbols—that better reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Trinidad and Tobago. The steel pan is undoubtedly a vital part of the nation’s heritage, but so too are the religious festivals, culinary traditions, languages, and other cultural practices that thrive across the islands. Any new Coat of Arms must strive to honor this diversity and the many contributions that have shaped the nation.
Prime Minister Rowley’s decision is a courageous step toward a more inclusive and truthful representation of Trinidad and Tobago’s history. Yet, as the country moves forward, it must ensure that its new symbols capture not just one aspect of its culture but the full range of its people’s experiences and aspirations. This is an opportunity to create a national identity that is as diverse, dynamic, and complex as the people of Trinidad and Tobago themselves.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Keith Bernard is a Guyanese-born, NYC-based analyst and a frequent contributor to News Americas.
