The adopted motion by Member of Parliament (MP) Solange Duncan of National Alliance (NA) calling for a National Heritage Week, Cultural Council and teaching local history in school (see Tuesday paper) is interesting. Teen Times submitted a similar request to Party for Progress (PFP) in June last year, which she acknowledged in her presentation.
Lack of learning materials was mentioned as an issue in the past, but quite some work has been done in the meantime to document and comment on St. Maarten’s past development and tell its stories. Whatever educational choices are made in this regard, they should be academically responsible and consistent, so youngsters do not get conflicting messages.
A National Heritage Week seems a good way to help raise awareness about the country’s roots and patrimony. It may also become a tourist attraction as seen in other places with such happenings.
The week can be used by both the public and private sectors to highlight local culture and traditions, providing a community showcase which residents and visitors alike will no doubt appreciate. There could even be related side events including Monument Days when historic sites and structures are open for viewing by the public.
As for a date, it would probably be best to separate the week from other celebrations such as Emancipation Day. Perhaps an island-wide approach is an option; for example, surrounding the anniversary of the Treaty of Concordia that – while not without controversy – is also an important part of local heritage.
Mind you, this is bound to cost some money in a financially difficult situation and, above all, effort by many volunteers. However, in terms of both national identity and cultural promotion it will probably prove a worthwhile endeavour.
