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What can Aruba teach us about cultural resilience and the quest for autonomy? Join Strictly Facts as we sit down with Dr. Gregory Richardson from the Instituto Pedagogico Arubano to unveil the intricate layers of Aruba's history and culture. Dr. Richardson, a notable educator and researcher, sheds light on how Aruba's unique status within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, known as status aparte, was realized in 1986. Together, we explore the island's indigenous roots, colonial legacy from Spain, Britain, and the Netherlands, and the powerful role activism has played in shaping Aruba's identity today.

Our conversation takes a deeper look into the political and cultural dynamics that have defined Aruba and the wider Dutch Caribbean over the years. We discuss the island's linguistic diversity, where Dutch serves as the language of instruction, yet Papiamento and Spanish hold cultural significance. The 1970s brought waves of calls for autonomy, and we dissect Gilberto François "Betico" Cruz's crucial leadership in achieving Aruba's separate status. As we navigate through the 2010 restructuring of the Dutch Caribbean and the ongoing debate over independence, we draw parallels with the situation in Puerto Rico and reflect on the complex identities that emerge from these small island societies.

The episode crescendos with an exploration of Aruba's vibrant cultural expressions. Dr. Richardson helps us understand how the island's cultural practices are acts of autonomy, allowing Arubans to assert their identity beyond political boundaries. Experience the rich tapestry of Aruba's culture, where music and language are not just modes of expression but also tools of cultural assertion in this fascinating journey into Aruba's heart and soul.

Dr Gregory Richardson is an educator and researcher at the Instituto Pedagogico Arubano (Aruba), a part time lecturer at the University of Aruba and a postdoc researcher at the The Royal Netherlands Institute of Southeast Asian and Caribbean Studies (KITLV) . He has published several works on Calypso Music in Aruba and the region; also in the area of identity and diversity, Other areas of research include, general Latin American and Caribbean studies, sociolinguistics, music, practitioner-based research and education. He is also involved in community based activities.

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Join Strictly Facts as we share the captivating journey of education in the French Caribbean, focusing on Martinique's rich history throughout the 20th century. With the insightful PhD candidate Nora Eguienta by my side, we unravel the largely untold stories of women educators who profoundly shaped the educational and political landscape from 1920 to 1960. These women dominated teaching positions yet were conspicuously absent from leadership roles—a paradox that persisted until well into the late 1960s. Nora helps is to explore this intriguing dynamic, diving into historical narratives and the powerful activism led by figures like Paulette Nardal, challenging the biases that limited women's roles in education.

Our conversation also takes a scholarly turn as we discuss Patrick Chamoiseau's "Chemin d'école," providing a cultural snapshot of the 1950s schooling experience amid Martinique's transition into a French department. Through this lens, we address the educational challenges of cultural and linguistic barriers, while highlighting the unsung heroes who contributed to the island's rich history. From the impact of migration on teaching staff to the importance of curricula that reflected local histories, we weave a complex tapestry of topics that emphasize the profound influence of everyday individuals on the social history of the French West Indies. Join us in celebrating the resilience and contributions of those who paved the way for future generations.

Nora Eguienta is a PhD candidate in the Department of History at the University Paris 8—Saint-Denis. She is preparing a thesis titled “Les institutrices de l’école primaire laïque en Martinique des années 1920 aux années 1960.” Her research focuses on the history of education, especially on women teaching in elementary schools in Martinique during colonial and postcolonial times. Nora analyzes women professionalization in the context of development of public schools during the French Third Republic and studies their different types of political commitment as educated women living in a colonial society. She is also a certified teacher, teaching contemporary history at middle school, high school and college level. Follow Nora on Twitter and LinkedIn.

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What if the rhythm of an island could reshape global music? In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Jessica Swanston Baker who both brings her rich family heritage and academic expertise to trace the roots and evolution of wylers, its integral role in Carnival, and reveal how Caribbean music has profoundly influenced the global soundscape.

Journey with us as we explore the dynamic evolution of Caribbean Christmas sports, with a special focus on the historical and cultural transformations in St. Kitts and Nevis. Dr. Swanston Baker sheds light on the technological advancements of the 1980s that propelled the development of wylers music, setting the stage for its contemporary form and challenging societal norms with its rapid tempo. Finally, we discuss the broader impact of globalization on Caribbean music in the 1990s and 2000s. Learn how affordable music technology enabled a new generation of musicians to bypass traditional pathways, reshaping the local and global music scenes. We also dive into the personal stories of navigating family history through ethnomusicology, highlighting the significance of tempo and poetic expression in Caribbean culture.

Jessica Swanston Baker is an ethnomusicologist specializing in contemporary popular music of the Circum-Caribbean. Her work centers on the intricate relationships between tempo, aesthetics, colonial legacies, and the intersections of race and gender in the region and its diaspora. Her book, Island Time: Speed and the Archipelago from St. Kitts and Nevis (University of Chicago Press, 2024), traces the sonic history and ethnographic present of wylers, a fast-paced style of music from St. Kitts and Nevis, examining how it reflects broader histories of colonization, Black femininity, and West Indian performance practices. Professor Baker earned a Ph.D. in Ethnomusicology from the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Bucknell University.

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Recently celebrating 62 years of independence, Trinidad and Tobago is regarded as one of the most successful nations in the Caribbean. However, what are the signs of a successful independent nation? In this episode, Dr. Zophia Edwards joins us to discuss the complexity of what constitutes “success” and the role of ordinary people in shaping the country’s trajectory. The heart of our conversation centers on the pivotal role of working people in Trinidad and Tobago's progress both before and after independence. Despite the persistent structural dependencies on natural resources and foreign markets inherited from colonial times, the tenacity and mobilization of the working class have driven notable improvements in material conditions such as lower infant mortality and increased life expectancy. We explore how multiracial and multi-sectoral solidarity among workers, spanning industries from sugar to oil, has consistently fought for equitable wages, better working conditions, and broader societal change, culminating in robust democratic systems and enhanced human welfare.

Finally, we delve into the intersections of race, class, and culture in the Caribbean, highlighting the importance of understanding these dynamics to fully grasp the region's past and future. Discussions on how colonial power funneled different racial groups into specific economic sectors and how workers forged a multiracial movement against oppression, are complemented by the cultural resistance captured in Calypso music and social movements. Dr. Edwards also brings in perspectives from key scholars and contemporary thinkers, shedding light on recent movements and the exploitation of natural resources. Tune in to understand how historical legacies and grassroots organizing continue to shape the Caribbean's path towards justice and liberation.

Zophia Edwards is an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Johns Hopkins University. Her research examines race, labor, colonialism, state-building, and comparative development in the Global South. Her forthcoming book with Duke University Press examines the role of multiracial labor movements in state-building and equity-enhancing development in Trinidad and Tobago. She has published in academic journals such as International Journal of Comparative Sociology and her public scholarship appears outlets such as Monthly Review and Clash!

*Additional

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Embark on a remarkable journey through Caribbean history with us as we welcome Martine Powers, the senior host of the Washington Post Reports, as well as the host creator of the gripping series "The Empty Grave of Comrade Bishop." Martine's personal connection to the Caribbean, stemming from her Trinidadian heritage and family ties to Grenada, brings an intimate and profound perspective to the complex story of Maurice Bishop. Discover the intricate mysteries surrounding Bishop's execution and the enigmatic disappearance of his body, alongside speculations about possible US government involvement.

Creating this series was no small feat, and Martine's dedication shines through as she shares the challenges and triumphs faced over two years of meticulous reporting. Balancing her primary job, relentless travel, and the hustle of gathering credible sources, Martine's commitment to bringing Caribbean stories to life is nothing short of inspiring. Her journey underscores the cultural significance of accurate storytelling, especially for Caribbean Americans yearning to see their heritage represented with depth and authenticity.

The conversation delves into the politically charged atmosphere of Grenada during Maurice Bishop's era, offering a nuanced view far removed from the stereotypical vacation paradise. Through compelling anecdotes and powerful interviews, the discussion captures the intense experiences of those who lived through this turbulent time. It also shines a light on the often-overlooked histories of other Caribbean nations like Jamaica and Haiti, emphasizing the need for more stories that reflect the vibrant, resilient spirit of Caribbean people. Join us to uncover these untold narratives and gain a richer understanding of the Caribbean's multifaceted heritage.

Connect with Martine Powers - Martine.Powers@washpost.com

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What if your country had to fight for its independence not once, but twice? Join us as we unveil the incredible story of the Dominican Republic's Restoration Day, celebrated on August 16th. This episode of Strictly Facts explores the Dominican Restoration War from 1863 to 1865, during which the nation valiantly reclaimed its sovereignty from Spain. We'll highlight key figures like Santiago Rodriguez and Juan Pablo Duarte, who played essential roles in this epic struggle, and discuss how their leadership helped shape the country's national identity.

From the initial Cry of Capotillo to the final moments of victory, discover how the Dominican Republic's triumph inspired broader independence movements throughout the Caribbean, particularly in Cuba and Puerto Rico. Despite facing immense challenges, including attempts at annexation by multiple powers, the Dominican people’s resilience shone through. This episode is not just a recount of historical events but a tribute to the enduring spirit of a nation. Tune in to learn about the lasting impact of the Dominican Republic's Second Republic, and don't forget to follow us on social media to share your own reflections on Restoration Day and other significant milestones you’d like us to cover.

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With the renowned Notting Hill Carnival coming up at the end of the month, what a better time than now to reshare about the extraordinary life and work of one of its co-founders, activist and intellectual Claudia Jones. Jones was a pioneering Caribbean activist whose contributions have shaped movements for human rights and equality across the globe. From her roots in Trinidad and Tobago to her unyielding fight against racial and gender injustices in both the US and the UK, Claudia Jones’s legacy is a vibrant testament to the power of resilience and advocacy.

This episode of Strictly Facts is a tribute to her indomitable spirit, exploring her early involvement with the Junior NAACP and the National Urban League, her influential writings for the Communist Party, and her relentless activism even after being deported from the US. Learn about her pivotal role in founding Britain’s first major Black newspaper, the West Indian Gazette, her advocacy for the Windrush generation, and her unwavering commitment to equality. Tune in to hear how Claudia Jones not only challenged but transformed the landscape of activism for the Caribbean diaspora and beyond.

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In this episode of Strictly Facts, we're joined by Dr. Sanyu Mulira, a recent NYU graduate with a passion for feminism and anti-colonial activism in the Francophone Black Atlantic. Together, we discuss the intricate history of the French Caribbean through the Negritude movement and its impact on global Black intellectualism, illuminating the legacies the pivotal roles played by territories like Guadeloupe and Martinique.

We dissect the socio-economic landscape of the French Caribbean in the 20th century and explore the emergence of the Negritude movement. Special attention is given to influential figures such as Aimé Césaire and the Nardal sisters, whose contributions have left an indelible mark on global Black intellectualism. Through a fellow women's historian viewpoint, we also highlight lesser-known yet crucial contributors to the Negritude movement. We also shine a light on the grassroots activism led by communist women's groups in Guadeloupe and Martinique. These groups worked tirelessly to empower their communities by listening to what they needed. From the achievements of pioneering women like Gerty Archimède to the ongoing efforts of contemporary activists, we underscore the importance of historical documentation in preserving these vital narratives. Tune in to appreciate the legacy of activists like Paulette Nardal and Gerty Archimède as we ensure their significant impact remains recognized and remembered.

Sanyu Mulira is a graduate of the African Diaspora History doctoral program at New York University. Her work looks at histories of feminism and anti-colonial activism in the Francophone Black Atlantic. In the fall 2024 semester, Sanyu Mulira will be an Assistant Professor of African Diaspora History at the Georgia Institute of Technology in the department of History and Sociology.

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