Throwback to February 2021, a moment where tradition met transformation. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Trinidad and Tobago's government canceled Carnival, an event deeply ingrained in our cultural fabric. But it was precisely because of this void that I felt compelled to take to the streets, garbed as the iconic Dame Lorraine, a character that has echoed through our history.
Despite the absence of the official festivities, I couldn't let the essence of Carnival fade away. Armed with a Bluetooth speaker and masked for safety, I marched alone, my sign reading 'Still Not Asking For It'. This was more than a display; it was a poignant social commentary on the state of women’s rights in TT, particularly in light of Andrea Bharath's tragic passing.
The idea behind this personal project was inspired by Marshall McLuhan’s concept: 'The Medium is the Message'. When conveying a potent message, the form it takes can be as impactful as the content itself. In choosing Dame Lorraine, a figure that was ‘prohibited’ at the time, I tapped into a medium that would resonate deeply with my community.
The response was overwhelming. Neighbors and friends appreciated the innovation, and the message struck a chord. This wasn't just about keeping the spirit of Carnival alive; it was about using a silenced medium to amplify a crucial issue.
As I reflect, I can't help but feel proud of this independent endeavor. I had waited for the perfect moment to combine tradition and advocacy, and the universe gave me an unforgettable canvas. Sometimes, the most poignant messages arise when they're least expected but most needed.
#ThrowbackThursday #OleMas #DameLorraine #SocialCommentary #TheMediumIsTheMessage #Carnival2021 #TrinidadandTobago #COVID19 #WomensRights #MarshallMcLuhan
Happy 4th!