Are you free yet?

The purpose?

Embarking on a spirited journey to share personal stories within our Caribbean family feels like setting sail on a vibrant carnival float of healing. My desire is to turn the spotlight onto the tales that often linger in the shadows — stories of resilience, growth, and the communal dance towards overcoming trauma. Picture a lively gathering where the rhythmic beats of reggae accompany heart-to-heart conversations, and laughter echoes through the air like the joyous sounds of a steel drum. These narratives, as colorful as a tropical sunset, serve as beacons of hope, guiding us through the complex rhythms of healing. Together, we unravel the threads of shared experiences, weaving a tapestry that not only acknowledges the challenges but also celebrates the strength inherent in our Caribbean roots. It’s a vibrant, communal storytelling where every voice is a note in the symphony of collective healing, resonating across the islands and beyond.

View from inside a car driving on a road surrounded by tall palm trees on both sides under a partly cloudy sky.
Colorful mural featuring various characters including a man with glasses, a blue-faced figure with exaggerated features and a large open mouth, and a person holding a stick or paddle. The background has multicolored geometric patterns.
Group of colorful paintings and artworks on display at an art market or exhibition, featuring abstract, landscape, and portrait styles.
A street market stall selling clothing, hats, and jewelry. The display includes colorful shirts, caps, hats, and numerous necklaces and jewelry pieces on a red tablecloth.
A mural depicting three men sitting on a large tree branch near a body of water, with one playing guitar, one playing drums, and the other gesturing with a raised hand.
Outdoor hot tub surrounded by lush green tropical plants and trees with a thatched roof structure nearby.

Why is it important to have these conversations?

Not only were many of us taught to suppress our emotions, we also haven’t had a healthy conversation on the not so pretty side of our cultures. Having these conversations help introduce dialogue from different yet similar backgrounds. Which helps reveal the overlapping experiences in the community that transforms us into who we are as individuals, revealing both positive and negative experiences we all face creates the opportunity for discussion, growth and empowerment.

How can we build a community?

Building a strong community requires fostering a sense of connection and shared purpose among the people. I’ve created this blog to share our stories and speak on the “taboo” shove under the rug conversations. This is a safe space where I promise you that YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!!! Chances are we’ve been there but we are here to learn from each other, our experiences and grow together one story at a time.

A woman walking on a beach path near a river, with palm trees and a sandy beach in the background.

To change a stigma we must employ a multifaceted strategy involving education, accurate information dissemination, and personal storytelling. Challenge stereotypes through positive portrayals and inclusive language. Foster open dialogue and create safe spaces for discussions. Engage influential figures, community leaders and media support change. Patience and persistence are key, as reshaping perceptions requires time and consistent efforts. Collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations to amplify impact and build a more inclusive, empathetic community.

Are you ready to change the stigma and how can you?

A beach scene with boats on the sand, people swimming and relaxing by the water, lush green trees, and a hillside in the background under a partly cloudy sky.