Reviving Roots: A Kalinago Healer's Quest to Uphold Indigenous Heritage

When Jadir Agung Marcelle departed Dominica two decades ago, he was a teenager enriched by the traditions passed down from his grandfather, encompassing rituals, narratives, and the spiritual legacies of the Kalinago people. Entrusted with the roles of shaman, priestly guide, and piaye, a traditional healer, Marcelle's connection to his heritage has only deepened over the years. At 36, he acutely recognizes the ongoing erasure of Indigenous Caribbean culture, lamenting the unawareness many have regarding their Kalinago ancestry. While Dominica is home to the only officially recognized Kalinago Territory, he emphasizes that their presence is felt far beyond. Upon visiting places like Saint Lucia and Saint Vincent, he notes shared physical traits among locals. He underscores that recognition encompasses land and history, not mere appearance. As he continues to promote Kalinago traditions through healing practices like Nocobou Pijat, he aims to ensure cultural integrity against misappropriation within a broader framework of acknowledgment and respect.