The contribution of the African to life in Trinidad and Tobago is everywhere – from food, to clothes, music, place names and religion. Eintou Springer in her capacity as Cultural and Heritage Consultant recently shared her knowledge in this area with the staff of the National Library (NALIS). In addition, she challenged the staff of Nalis to understand their critical role in information sharing, to see themselves as 'custodians' of the literature in the library and to explore this role in empowering citizens who are seeking information.
Her essential thesis is that the history of the African did not begin with enslavement; rather Africans have had a long and lively history and have made significant contributions to global development. Further, it is important for the development of Trinidad and Tobago, that people of various ethnicities be aware of their history, their value and their contribution.
Her lecture which was very well received by the staff of Nalis, dealt with the following areas:
- Cultural Retention and its relevance in the Now
- Cultural Retention as Cultural Resistance
- African Spirituality
- Elements of Retention (food, music, clothes, language and so on)
As always feel free to contact us to arrange similar lectures for your staff or group.
