Minister Fernandez and Renowned Antiguan Writer Jamaica Kincaid Engage in Profound Dialogue on History, Culture, and Identity

Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation, and Investment, Charles Fernandez, met with internationally celebrated Antiguan writer Jamaica Kincaid for an in-depth discussion on history, culture, and the evolving identity of Antigua and Barbuda.

Their exchange reflected mutual importance of each other’s work, highlighting their shared commitment to preserving and promoting the nation’s rich heritage.

Ms. Kincaid is also a professor at Harvard College in the Department of African and African American Studies and Department of English.

Minister Fernandez expressed his deep appreciation for Ms. Kincaid’s literary contributions, particularly her novel Annie John, which has shaped Caribbean literature and is widely studied across the region.

He commended her ability to capture society through storytelling, preserving both personal and collective histories. In turn, Ms. Kincaid expressed admiration for Minister Fernandez’s dedication to national development, tourism and political affairs and his active support of the local film industry.

Their discussions extended beyond literature and culture, delving into regional and international affairs, the importance of historical narratives, and the need for Caribbean societies to take ownership of their stories.

Both agreed on the urgency of encouraging young people to document oral histories, ensuring that the voices of past generations are preserved for the future.

A significant part of their conversation centered on the renaming of key institutions and landmarks to better reflect Antigua and Barbuda’s identity, shifting away from colonial legacies toward a more authentic representation of the nation’s history.

They explored the broader implications of such changes, not only within Antigua and Barbuda but across the Caribbean, as nations seek to redefine their cultural landscapes.

Minister Fernandez further encouraged Ms. Kincaid to engage with the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus, particularly in the areas of Caribbean studies and history, to share her knowledge and perspectives with the next generation of scholars.

Ms. Kincaid welcomed the idea and expressed her enthusiasm for fostering deeper intellectual and creative engagement with the region.

The meeting underscored a shared vision for a more conscious and self-determined Antigua and Barbuda, where history, literature, and policy intersect to shape a national identity, and visitors alike rooted in truth and cultural pride.