The Standing History of Afro-Diasporic Traditions in Trinidad & Tobago

Project Title

The Standing History of Afro-Diasporic Traditions in Trinidad & Tobago

Faculty Mentor(s)

Project Description

As a pannist of Trinidadian descent, I aim to bridge gaps between practitioners, scholars, and intellectuals outside of the academy and explore Caribbean narratives through a more nuanced perspective.

My research investigates the roots of steel pan, sticking, and spiritual baptist practices by analyzing texts, music, and ethnographies. This research is deeply rooted in first-hand accounts, oral storytelling, and musical allegiance to African Diasporic Traditions to respect and uplift the history of African Diasporic Traditions.

Many Afro-diasporic traditions are often analyzed in isolation rather than seen as multiple parts of one larger story. I have connected more of these puzzle pieces in my work and presented them to scholar and non-scholar communities. By utilizing authentic Trini work, I have produced scholarship that is more accessible to all audiences and sometimes bumps with the Western canon.

How long have you been conducting research?

I started my research during the summer of 2022 so I’ve conducted research for a year and 2 months.

Why is your research important?

This research aims to implement more Caribbean literature and voices into the canon of academia. Many dismiss the intellectual and cultural contributions that Caribbean people have contributed to the world, and such accolades must be uplifted. This research bridges the connection between academia, musicians, and local folklorists' Afro-diasporic traditions.

What does the process of doing your research look like?

Due to the music aspect of my project, video and song analysis are a decent portion of what I do, in addition to utilizing ethnographic and textual evidence. In addition to this, I constantly look out for literature made by authors from Trinidad and Tobago to have a more nuanced perspective of Caribbean culture. In this research, while spending my summer in Trinidad, I have tapped into numerous connections in the music community, such as Republic Bank Exodus Steel Orchestra and the University of West Indies St. Augustine Campus.

What knowledge has your research contributed to your field?

Many Afro-diasporic traditions are often analyzed in isolation rather than seen as multiple parts of one larger story. I have connected more of these puzzle pieces in my work and presented them to scholar and non-scholar communities. By utilizing authentic Trini work, I have produced scholarship that is more accessible to all audiences and sometimes bumps with the Western canon.

In what ways have you showcased your research thus far?

Back at home in Chicago, I presented my research at the annual Mellon Conference in my junior year. I have also presented at the annual spring and summer symposiums run through Oberlin's OSRI/OUR programming.

How did you get involved in research? What drove you to seek out research experiences in college?

I was moved by the Mellon projects of fellow Oberlin students, Qayyum and Kari, who focused on Black identity in different but equally interesting ways! They recommended me to apply and saw my potential as a researcher in tandem with all my Africana Studies Professors. I also wanted the opportunity to dig deeper into my Trini roots through an academic lens which Mellon allowed for as projects are based on one's interest.

What is your favorite aspect of the research process?

I spent the entirety of my summer research time in Trinidad & Tobago, which has completely changed how I see my project. By looking at my history in this project, I can feel the presence of my ancestors and see the life that my grandmother lived as a youth!

How has working with your mentor impacted the development of your research project? How has it impacted you as a researcher?

Professor Peterson has been a great mentor and has been able to help me narrow down the numerous ideas I wanted to encapsulate. Through his tutelage, I have better understood philosophy and the theory of race and class dynamics within my research. He constantly pushes me to ask more profound questions and leaves no stone unturned whenever I narrow in on my interests.

How has the research you’ve conducted contributed to your professional or academic development?

My confidence in writing has been dramatically affected by researching as I have become more confident and efficient. Due to the nature of my project, I have met many musicians and elders that I also look up to.

What advice would you give to a younger student wanting to get involved in research in your field?

Do not be afraid to connect your history to your research. Through my research, I have uncovered many stories of my ancestors that were not accessible to me in an academic setting. It may not always be easy work, but it has always been rewarding.