Anette Sanford Sworn in as First Female Kalinago Chief in Almost 400 Years
Anette Sanford
21st Kalinago Chief of The Commonwealth of Dominica
In a historic ceremony held at the Barana Aute in the Kalinago Territory on September 11th 2024, Anette Sanford was officially sworn in as the first female Kalinago Chief in nearly four centuries. This landmark event, which also saw the induction of her new council members, marks a turning point in the leadership of the indigenous Kalinago people of Dominica.
The ceremony was presided over by the President of the Commonwealth of Dominica, Her Excellency Sylvanie Burton, who herself made history as both the first female and the first Kalinago President of Dominica. President Burton’s presence highlighted the significance of the moment, with two trailblazing women of Kalinago heritage standing at the helm of national and tribal leadership.
In her inaugural speech as chief, Sanford expressed deep gratitude to her supporters, both near and far. "Today is a day of profound significance not just for me but for every Kalinago person, our culture, as well as our heritage as a people, and for all who have stood with us on this journey," Sanford said.
“Standing here as the first female Kalinago Chief in almost 400 years, taking up the mantle of tribal leadership, I am therefore honoured and humbled by the trust you have placed in me”
Reflecting on her role as the first woman to assume this position in almost 400 years, she acknowledged the weight of her new responsibilities. "Standing here as the first female Kalinago Chief in almost 400 years, taking up the mantle of tribal leadership, I am therefore honoured and humbled by the trust you have placed in me," she declared.
Sanford also unveiled her vision for her term in office, centered on uniting the Kalinago people under the theme: “Together we can achieve an Indigenous people-centered vision for the 21st century and beyond.” She reminded the Kalinago of their proud lineage, stating, “We are descendants of warriors, storytellers, and visionaries whose spirit continues to guide us today. We all stand on the shoulders of our ancestors, who with courage and tenacity preserved our culture, language, and way of life.”
In a poignant moment, she honored her late mother, who had passed away when Sanford was only seven years old. "My mother held the role of a housewife until the day she died. I know that she is smiling down at me today," she shared, adding a personal touch to her otherwise monumental speech.
Sanford’s rise to leadership came after a decisive victory in the July Kalinago Chief election. Her win, which took many by surprise, was by a landslide, a margin that few expected given the highly competitive race with seven candidates. After her victory was announced, Sanford made a passionate call for unity in the Kalinago Territory, urging her people to come together to build a brighter future.
Sanford’s election and subsequent swearing-in mark a new chapter for the Kalinago people, signaling progress, inclusivity, and a renewed focus on indigenous leadership in Dominica.
