The Caribbeans and certainly Dominicans take their Sunday very seriously. Religion is everywhere and in all thinkable varieties. Methodist, baptist, seventh day adventists, catholics, anglicans and the omnipresent Jehovas are just a selection. There are 2 mosques also. The neighbouring island Nevis hosts 70 religious denominations on a population of 14000.
On Sunday morning I take a stroll and there is music (as usual in Dominica) originating from what turns out the Baptist Church. Taking a video inside is understandibly not allowed but … listening is ok.
Music is an essential part of life so a sound video tells more than a photograph.The Eastern Caribbean Islands have created their own style of Calypso like music: Soca and it can be heard on all streetcorners. Today, however it is church music. I cannot film, people are very reluctant but the music makes up for this. Today is also Independence day of this Island state of 76000 inhabitants. It is the 46th. And the streets are alive with the Dominican Soca.
Tonight is a gathering in the sports arena. Some 600 people (1% of the population) see their female president Sylvanie Burton arrive in full Creole chique dress. I could make patronising remarks but these would be wholy unjust. The atmosphere is very relaxed and laid back but at the same time the audience takes it all very seriously. It is their country. Making pictures is unfortunately frowned upon. Colorful outfits radiate dignity and pride. In the city it is party time again, techno Calypso blasts through the streets. A symbolic rainbow appears in the sky.
It is eight o’clock at night and the cruise ship on the pier leaves. Every day one of these giants moors and some 2500 guests explore he island or just stay onboard. The chimneys bulge black smoke to enable the aircondition to function. Once loaded into the tour busses they disappear. As on Sain Lucia, in Roseau the cruise passengers are rarely spotted on the street.
The next day I leave this wonderful island, on the ferry there is a 2 hour party on the top deck. No boredom, just a lot of joy.
