Today marks the United Nations International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, and Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has highlighted the enduring legacy of the Indigenous peoples in Trinidad and Tobago. As the Member of Parliament for Arima, home to the Santa Rosa First Peoples Community, Beckles shared her deep connection with the community, underscoring its significance to the nation’s history and identity.
Beckles extended her respect to Chief Ricardo Bharath Hernandez, who has been a leading voice for Indigenous rights at international forums, including the United Nations. She acknowledged the diverse First Peoples descendants throughout the country, from the Warao community to those linked to Banwari Trace in San Francique.
Highlighting the historical importance of the First Peoples, Beckles noted their presence in the region for over 7,000 years before European contact. She praised the steps taken towards recognition, such as the 2017 public holiday and the reburial of ancestral remains at the Red House in 2019, but stressed that more needs to be done.
Under Beckles’ leadership, there will be a push for permanent legal recognition of the Santa Rosa First Peoples Community and the completion of the First Peoples Heritage Village in Arima. She emphasized the importance of embedding Indigenous history into the national curriculum and establishing a consultation protocol on cultural policy.
Beckles affirmed her commitment to supporting the First Peoples’ advocacy efforts, both regionally and internationally, ensuring their rightful place in the nation’s foundation is honored and preserved.
