Contemporary Indigenous Movements

Across the French Caribbean, people are reclaiming Indigenous heritage in various ways:

In Martinique

The Association Karisko works to revive Indigenous culture through education, ceremonies, and language workshops. "Many Martinicans are discovering Indigenous ancestry through DNA testing," explains Marcel Rapon, the association's president. "But more importantly, they're recognizing how Indigenous worldviews can help address contemporary challenges like environmental destruction."

In Guadeloupe

Groups like Kawana organize cultural events celebrating Indigenous heritage. The annual Festival Terre de Blues includes Indigenous ceremonies alongside blues and jazz performances, showing how Indigenous culture participates in contemporary artistic expression.

In French Guiana

The situation differs dramatically, with six Indigenous peoples—Kali'na, Lokono, Palikur, Teko, Wayampi, and Wayana—comprising about 4% of the population. These communities maintain greater cultural autonomy but face threats from gold mining, deforestation, and cultural assimilation.

"We're not asking to return to the past," states Jocelyn Thérèse, a Kali'na leader. "We're demanding the right to shape our own futures while maintaining our connections to the land and our traditions."