The
flag of Dominica was adopted in 1978, with some small changes
being made in 1981, 1988, and 1990. The flag features a green
background. A red circle at the centre features a Sisserou Parrot
(Amazona imperialis) surrounded by ten green stars, which represent
the island's ten parishes. Four strips of three coloured bands
(yellow, black and white) radiate horizontally and vertically
from the circle.
Dominica
has been nicknamed the "Nature Isle of the Caribbean"
due to its seemingly unspoiled natural beauty. It is one of
the youngest islands in the Lesser Antilles, and it is still
being formed by geothermal-volcanic activity. The island features
lush mountainous rainforests, home of many rare plant, animal
and bird species. .
There are xeric areas in some of the western coastal
regions but heavy rainfall can be expected inland. Dominica's economy
is heavily dependent on both tourism and agriculture
Dominica's Caribs now live in
eight villages within the 3,700 acres of land on the east
coast of Dominica known as the ‘Carib Territory’.
Their ancestors had come from South
America, sailing down the Orinoco river in dugout canoes, they
settled on the rugged islands in order to protect themselves
from enemies.
In 1493, Christopher Columbus landed
in Dominica in search of gold and fortune. However he found only
rivers, mountains, rich red volcanic soil and the Caribs!
They welcomed Columbus and his men
and in return Columbus worked and exploited them, almost to the
verge of extinction.
The Caribs in Dominica, after
years of brutal treatment by the Spanish, French and English, now
number approximately 3,000. They elect their own chief who holds the
position for 4 years and also have a representative in the house of
assembly. In July 2004 saw Charles Williams elected as Carib Chief.
They tend to keep to themselves
and their culture has remained very much unchanged compared
to other areas of the island.
They are a warm and
friendly people, living in peace and harmony, relying on the
earth and the sea for a living.
Many women in the ‘Carib
Territory’ weave beautiful baskets that are sold to
tourist as souvenirs.
One is flung centuries back
into a cool, calm place amidst a most beautiful group of people.
Research has shown that families with an alcoholic
member live in environments that are disorganized and unstable,
said Dr. Grant. "Children of alcoholics may be neglected
or abused and frequently face economic hardship and social
isolation.
Seen here the Carib Indians receiving
their Make Jesus Smile
gifts last Christmas.
They also are vulnerable to psychopathology
and medical problems, including an increased risk for themselves
developing alcohol abuse or alcohol alcoholism."
According to Dr. Gordis, "These findings once
again call attention to the enormous impact of alcohol in our country
and the need to confront its social, health, and economic consequences
head on."
