The identity and political struggles of Guadeloupe

Area and Location

Places associated with identity and political struggles in Guadeloupe include Place de la Victoire in Pointe-à-Pitre, the Forteresse Delgrès in Basse-Terre, and the Mémorial ACTe in Pointe-à-Pitre.

The Different Identity and Political Struggles of Guadeloupe

Identity struggles : preserving Guadeloupean culture

Guadeloupean culture, shaped by a blend of African, European, Caribbean, and Indian influences, has always been a powerful vehicle for asserting identity. Traditions like gwo ka (music and dance), the Creole language, and local cuisine have allowed Guadeloupeans to affirm their uniqueness against cultural assimilation imposed by France.

• The Creole language: Long undervalued, Creole has become a strong symbol of Guadeloupean identity. Associations and writers such as Maryse Condé have contributed to its recognition.

• Cultural events: The Guadeloupe Carnival is an example of cultural resistance, where locals celebrate their history and diversity through music, dance, and traditional costumes.

Political struggles: status and social demands

Since becoming an overseas department in 1946, Guadeloupe has experienced political movements seeking to redefine its status within the French Republic. These demands range from autonomy and independence to social equality.

• The May 1967 riots: In May 1967, a building workers’ strike in Pointe-à-Pitre escalated into violent clashes with law enforcement, revealing ongoing social inequalities and racial tensions.

• The autonomist and independence movement: Parties such as the Union Populaire pour la Libération de la Guadeloupe (UPLG) campaigned for greater autonomy or independence, asserting Guadeloupeans’ right to self-determination.

• The 2009 general strike: Led by the LKP collective (Liyannaj Kont Pwofitasyon), this strike highlighted issues like high living costs, unemployment, and economic inequality. It marked a turning point in contemporary social demands.

Guadeloupe has been the stage for many identity and political struggles, led by emblematic figures and committed groups defending Guadeloupean rights and identity.

Solitude (circa 1772–1802)

Born around 1772, Solitude, nicknamed "la Mulâtresse Solitude," is a symbolic figure of Guadeloupean resistance against slavery. Daughter of an African slave and a white sailor, she experienced the horrors of slavery from an early age. In 1802, during Napoleon Bonaparte’s re-establishment of slavery, Solitude joined insurgents led by Louis Delgrès to defend the freedom of Black people in Guadeloupe. Pregnant at her arrest, she was executed the day after giving birth. Her courage and sacrifice make her a heroine of the fight against oppression.

Gerty Archimède (1909–1980)

The first female lawyer from Guadeloupe, Gerty Archimède is remembered for her commitment to civil rights and equality. A communist activist, she was elected deputy in 1946, becoming one of the first women to sit in the French National Assembly. Throughout her career, she defended the oppressed and worked for the emancipation of women and colonized peoples. In 1969, she notably defended Angela Davis during her visit to Guadeloupe.

Henry Sidambarom (1863–1952)

Of Indian origin, Henry Sidambarom fought for civil rights recognition for Indians and their descendants born in Guadeloupe. Thanks to his tireless efforts, in 1923 he secured French nationality for Indians in Guadeloupe, helping their integration and recognition.

Rosan Girard (1913–2001)

A key figure in Guadeloupe’s postcolonial history, Rosan Girard was a major player in political struggles for the island’s autonomy. Founder of the Guadeloupe Communist Party, he fought for workers’ rights and the emancipation of the Guadeloupean people. His career is often compared to that of Aimé Césaire in Martinique.

Current rights defense groups in Guadeloupe

Several associations and collectives continue to defend Guadeloupean rights and identity today. The Liyannaj Kont Pwofitasyon (LKP), created in 2008, is a collective fighting against high living costs and social injustice. The Défenseur des Droits (Defender of Rights), a national institution, has delegates in Guadeloupe to protect citizens’ rights against administrations and promote equality. Various local associations also work to defend public freedoms and human rights, contributing to preserving Guadeloupean identity and rights.

These individuals and groups have played and continue to play a crucial role in Guadeloupe’s identity and political struggles, working for recognition, equality, and social justice.

The Moun Gwadloup collective is a nonprofit founded by Albéri Gontrand, dedicated to defending Guadeloupean rights and identity. According to their YouTube channel, their goals include denouncing injustices faced by island inhabitants, raising awareness, and promoting local culture and traditions. The collective remains active in contemporary identity and political struggles, working for the common good of Guadeloupeans by exposing injustices, defending citizens’ rights, and promoting culture and traditions, thus fostering societal cohesion and growth.

Recently, they joined forces with the Rassemblement pour la Protection des Peuples et des Ressources Afro-Caribéennes (RPPRAC) to fight against the high cost of living in the archipelago.

Particularities and anecdotes

• A link with Africa: Identity claims often include reminders of African roots, with celebrations such as Black History Month and abolition commemorations.

• A unique context: Guadeloupe’s position as an overseas department creates a unique political dynamic where local issues must be balanced with French national policies.

Sites to visit: remains and monuments

Place de la Victoire (Pointe-à-Pitre)

A historic site of demonstrations and gatherings, Place de la Victoire symbolizes social and political struggles in Guadeloupe.

Forteresse Delgrès (Basse-Terre)

This site honors Louis Delgrès, a resistance hero, symbolizing the fight for freedom and equality.

Mémorial ACTe (Pointe-à-Pitre)

Beyond its role in remembering slavery, Mémorial ACTe explores identity and cultural dynamics shaping Guadeloupe today.

Why visit these sites? They provide insight into Guadeloupean identity and political struggles while offering a unique historical and cultural perspective.

Visitor tips and practical information

• Place de la Victoire: Visit during events or gatherings to feel its symbolic energy.
• Fort Delgrès: Take guided tours to deepen your understanding of Louis Delgrès and his struggle.
• Mémorial ACTe: Allocate at least two hours to explore its interactive and immersive exhibitions.

Accessibility for people with disabilities

• Place de la Victoire: Accessible to people with reduced mobility, with adapted paved areas.
• Fort Delgrès: Some parts require assistance.
• Mémorial ACTe: Fully accessible with adapted facilities.

FAQ

What are the main demands of political movements in Guadeloupe? They call for greater autonomy, improved social and economic equality, and the promotion of Guadeloupean identity.

Who is Louis Delgrès? Louis Delgrès is a hero of Guadeloupean resistance against the re-establishment of slavery in 1802. His fight symbolizes the struggle for freedom.

How does the Carnival reflect identity struggles? The Carnival celebrates Guadeloupe’s history and cultural diversity, embodying resistance against cultural assimilation.

Nearby activities

• Saint-John Perse Museum (Pointe-à-Pitre): 10-minute walk from Place de la Victoire, explore Guadeloupean history and poetry.
• Basse-Terre Market: 10 km (15-minute drive) from Fort Delgrès, a lively spot to discover local culture.
• La Datcha Beach (Le Gosier): 20-minute drive from Mémorial ACTe, perfect for a relaxing break after a cultural visit.