THE JOURNEY OF CARRIBEAN

History is not static, nor is it limited to global events. Whether consciously or by chance, our every choice and action is eventually woven into history’s tapestry.

For those of the Caribbean diaspora, building a community in Edmonton demanded conscious and deliberate effort - not mere chance. Beginning in the early 60s, with the first influx of nurses, caretakers, oilfield workers, and others seeking to maximize connections through the British Commonwealth, Caribbean people began to reshape Edmonton’s landscape.

Today the Edmonton Caribbean community is vibrant, boasting numerous festivals and established community organizations. But what about 20 years ago or 40 years ago? How quickly were new immigrants able to connect and find ‘home’ in this foreign land? What support systems were they able to access, and how did they come to be? Was the climate equally as welcoming, and what has driven change?