Colonialism brought names to the Kalinago people with which they cannot identify- names with no significance to their ancestry. Some now choose to honour their heritage by relinquishing the non-traditional name given at birth, replacing it with one that allows them to identify with their culture, a significant reclaimation of what colonialism sought to erase.
In the village, there exists a list of Kalinago names and their meaning. An elder is the custodian of that list which is circulated to those have expressed an interest in relinquishing their colonial name.
The name change is done with a Naming Ceremony held on a night when there’ s a full moon. This spiritual ceremony is officiated by the village Shaman and includes drumming and a smoke ceremony. Several people may have name changed on that night. The ceremony usually lasts for about an hour and is followed by a celebration which includes traditional food such as cassava, and drink, such as Wicu, a traditional beer made in the village.
Villa Ayahora is the host venue for many Naming Ceremonies. The owner once had a non-Kalinago name, Louis Patrick Hill. That was later changed to reflect his heritage. He is now Nichie Abo, which means‘ Bold’.
Some of the name changes may be ceremonial only, while others may chose to make it legal, duly registered and appearing on official documents.
Wedding ceremonies are also held at Villa Ayahora.
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