Population

According to the 2011 National Census, the ‘Territory’ is the home to over two thousand, one hundred and forty-five (2,145) people, spread over eight hamlets. These settlements include from north to south; Bataca, Crayfish River, Salybia, St. Cyr, Gaulette River, Mahaut River and Sineku, and Touna to the west. The statistical report also states the existence of six hundred and fifty two (652) households and seven hundred and twenty two (722) dwelling units.

Figure 4 Modern Kalinago Dwelling

The hamlets of this indigenous community are all part of the wider political Salybia constituency. This structure dictates that the political, social and economic development of the community functions within the framework of partisan and constituency politics.

 Identity

There have been many years of gradual cultural integration of the Kalinago people with those of African heritage. This occurrence is evident in the physical outlook of individuals who have different features from those described by early European chroniclers.

There is also the present day evidence of name changes which reflect those that were not normally assigned prior to Kalinago integration. These names make direct connections to communities outside the Kalinago Territory all of which are generally of European origin.

Figure 5 Typical Present Day Family

The miscegenation process has resulted in the development of a segment of the population referred to as ‘batter’. The subdivision nonetheless claims an affinity to their Kalinago heritage and culture.